A young teenage girl standing in front of a window looking at her mbile phone with a sad expression on her face.
Online harassment is a term used to describe negative incidents that happen online   

For many of us, time spent online is engaging, positive and a lot of fun!  

Technology has brought so much opportunity to our lives but it also carries risks that we need to be aware of.  

Online harassment can include everything from cyberbullying and posting of abusive or threatening messages to identity theft and impersonation. The term also covers someone pressuring you to share intimate images with them which are could be circulated afterwards.  

If you are being harassed in any way online, here are a few things you can do:  

 

  • Talk to your parent, carer or another trusted adult. As worried as you might be about their reaction, it’s vital that they know what’s going on so they can help you take the next steps.  
  • Take screenshots of the messages. Keep a record that outlines, where possible, the details, dates and times of any form of harassment that you've experienced. This will be very useful for a subsequent Garda investigation.  
  • It may be appropriate in some instances to delete the app where the incident occurred (but remember to save evidence beforehand).  
  • As tempting as it might be to respond, don’t. Bullies are looking for a strong reaction and response from their target. Instead, take the power back: block them and hopefully the bullying will stop. Every site has a way of blocking and reporting negative behaviour.  
  • Some forms of online harassment are now covered under Irish legislation.  Approach your local Gardaí if the abuse is particularly threatening or serious.
  • Reduce the amount of time you spend online.  


Support is available

If you’re worried that your parents / carers won’t understand what you are talking about or will take away your device, you can always talk to Childline. 

There is someone there to listen and support you 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 

You can get in touch by phone on 1800 66 66 66, by free text on 50101 or by live chat on childline.ie

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