Online bullying
Cyber bullying is any kind of bullying or harassment that occurs online with the intention of hurting or embarrassing someone. In New Zealand, Netsafe has free help for victims of cyber bullying.
What it is
Cyber bullying is any kind of bullying, harassment or abuse that’s carried out online – for example through social media, email or a website.
How it works
Online bullies might:
- send upsetting or threatening messages
- spread rumours about someone online
- publish fake profiles on social media sites
- post embarrassing photos or videos.
Cyber bullying is done to try to hurt or embarrass someone. If you are being bullied, you might not know the identity of your bully, or why it’s happening.
Get help
Netsafe has free help for anyone in New Zealand who is being bullied or harassed online.
They can:
- assess whether your complaint breaches the Harmful Digital Communications Act
- help you identify what you can do to stop the abuse, including using blocking and reporting tools
work with you and the person harassing you to get them to stop — including letting them know what might happen if the case goes to court - ask online content hosts, like social media sites and blogs, to remove harmful content.
Netsafe will only take steps that you have agreed to, and they’ll work with you throughout the process to make sure you’re comfortable.
You should report cyber bullying or harassment directly to Netsafe, by using the form below or calling 0508 638 723.