Text bullying
Text bullying happens when someone hassles you via your mobile phone. It can happen in a few different ways, like if you’re getting:
• mean or offensive messages
• bombarded by a large volume of messages (e.g. over 25 a day)
• offensive or upsetting photo or video messages
• threatening messages
• persistent unwanted messages
The messages might be sent from someone you know, or you may have no idea who’s sending them to you. Although you might not think they’re very serious, at NetSafe about a third of people who call our helpline with text-bully complaints are referred onto the Police because they involve threats or other illegal harassment. Text bullies leave an electronic trail, so they can be caught and, if their behaviour is criminal, they may even be prosecuted.
Sometimes, people who are text bullied don’t feel comfortable talking about it, but talking with someone you trust can actually help. Click here for more info on how to make text-bullying stop.
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