Young teenage boy wearing a hoodie looking off into the distance with a sad expression.
Cyberbullying is defined as the repeated bullying behaviour of a person or group inflicted on another person or group with the intent to cause them harm, using electronic devices and features. 

If you're experiencing cyberbullying, there are a number of things you can do:

  • Talk to someone about what's happening
  • Block or remove the person as a follower/friend. It is also advisable for children to block others they see abusing people online.
  • Take screenshots of the evidence which may be required by An Garda Síochána or the school.
  • Report the issue to the site/app or phone company.

  • If the person engaged in the cyberbullying behaviour attends your school, parents should inform the school what is happening. The Department of Education mandates schools to have an anti-bullying policy in place that outlines the actions it will take should an incident of any type of bullying take place.
  • For more serious instances of bullying behaviour or abuse such as harassment, grooming or child sexual abuse material, contact An Garda Síochána.

Signs your friend or sibling is experiencing cyberbullying

  • They are avoiding school

  • They seem upset, sad or angry (especially after using the phone or other devices)

  • They are withdrawing from usual activities

  • They suddenly lack interest in computers or rapidly switch screens when you enter the room

  • They no longer speak about or meet up with once close friends

In all these instances, remember that there is always someone to talk to who can help you figure out what to do.  

Either speak to a trusted adult or if you’re worried about their reaction, you can contact Childline by phone on 1800 66 66 66, by free text message on 50101 or by live chat on childline.ie. 

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