In 2007, 1 in 5 New Zealand high school students reported being cyberbullied and media attention on the issue has increased dramatically since NetSafe first undertook research on the problem.
For those not familiar with the term, cyberbullying is bullying. It’s using the internet, a mobile phone or other technology like a digital camera to hurt somebody, harass or embarrass them.
Children grow up today with access to more and more technology, quickly adapting to new ways of communicating and often use the internet and mobiles phones as the main way to reach friends 24/7.
This access to technology also means that bullying can happen outside school wherever and however a child communicates with friends ‐ on websites, online chat and on their mobile phone.
NetSafe cyberbullying information and advice:
We have a dedicated website providing cyberbullying resources for young people, parents and teachers.
You can:
- read our condensed guide to dealing with cyberbullying on this site
- check out all our cyberbullying Q&As or
- explore cyberbullying.org.nz where you can watch our New Zealand made film on the issue: At A Distance
- teachers, principals and BOT members can order a copy of the DVD for their school
Feedback
NetSafe is dedicated to providing evidence based advice on cyberbullying and we welcome comments from anyone affected by it.
You can leave a comment below, telephone us or send us a confidential email.
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3 Comments
this sort of thing should not go on, whats the world coming to? The police should have monitoring around the clock. people who cyber bully are always bullied themselves so they try and get back at the world…Shame on you clowns doing the bullying
I think its stupid, how people can get away with bullying, and nothing is being done about it. Its good that people are telling kids to be aware of it, but really why would you want to hurt someone online? Its cowardly. If you have a problem, say it out loud so people know, and people can help you solve it. Instead of hiding at home behind a computer screen or using your phone. If you really dislike someone so much as to harass them online, talk to someone about it, try ignore them and move on with your life.