Cyber Bullying on the Rise: Follow This Simple Method to Get Relief From Online Harassment and File a Complaint

Cyber Bullying Awareness: The internet and social media have brought the world closer than ever before, but they have also given rise to a serious and fast-growing problem—cyber bullying. Children and teenagers are especially vulnerable. What often begins as a joke or casual teasing online can quickly turn into harassment, humiliation, and sustained mental pressure. Experts warn that cyber bullying is even more dangerous than traditional bullying because it operates 24/7, leaving victims with no safe space to escape.

Recent surveys suggest that one in three children in India has experienced some form of cyber bullying, highlighting how widespread and alarming the issue has become.

What Is Cyber Bullying and How Does It Happen?

Cyber bullying typically takes place on popular digital platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp groups, gaming apps, and online chat rooms. In many cases, bullies misuse technology and AI tools to edit photos or videos of victims, making them embarrassing or offensive, and then circulate them online.

Common forms of cyber bullying include:

• Posting insulting or humiliating comments

• Spreading rumors or fake stories

• Sharing morphed or AI-edited images

• Repeatedly sending threatening or abusive messages

• Creating fake accounts to troll or impersonate someone

Often, cyber bullying starts as light-hearted banter in a group chat or comment section. However, it can quickly escalate into targeted personal attacks. The anonymity provided by the internet makes bullies feel fearless and unaccountable.

Girls are frequently targeted with body shaming and sexual remarks, while boys are often mocked over their appearance, achievements, or social status. Over time, this constant online pressure can deeply affect a child’s emotional and psychological well-being.

Why Cyber Bullying Is a Serious Mental Health Threat

Mental health professionals emphasize that cyber bullying can lead to:

• Anxiety and chronic stress

• Depression and low self-esteem

• Social withdrawal and fear

• Decline in academic performance

• In extreme cases, self-harm or suicidal thoughts

Unlike offline bullying, cyber bullying follows the victim everywhere—on their phone, laptop, or tablet—making it harder to disconnect.

Simple and Effective Ways to Prevent Cyber Bullying

Prevention starts with digital awareness and education. Children and teenagers should be taught basic online safety rules at an early age.

Key preventive steps include:

• Keeping social media accounts private

• Avoiding accepting friend requests from unknown people

• Never sharing personal information, passwords, or private photos online

• Using strong privacy settings on all apps

Parents should stay aware of their children’s online activities, but without invading trust. Open conversations work better than strict monitoring.

Schools can also play a vital role by organizing cyber safety workshops and digital etiquette classes. Teaching students how to behave responsibly online—and how to support peers who are being bullied—can significantly reduce harm.

If bullying content appears, users should immediately block and report the offender on the platform. Many social media apps now have dedicated reporting tools for harassment and abuse.

What To Do If You Are a Victim of Cyber Bullying

If you or your child becomes a victim of cyber bullying, the most important step is to stay calm. Responding angrily or engaging with the bully can make the situation worse.

Here’s what should be done immediately:

1. Do not reply or retaliate

2. Save evidence such as screenshots, messages, URLs, and posts

3. Inform a trusted adult—parents, teachers, or guardians

4. Report the content on the social media platform

If the bullying is serious or persistent, legal action may be necessary.

How to File a Cyber Bullying Complaint in India

India has a structured system to deal with online harassment and cyber crimes. Victims can file complaints through:

• Cyber Crime Portal: cybercrime.gov.in

• National Cyber Helpline: 1930

Complaints can be filed online, and in many cases, anonymity is allowed. Victims can also approach the nearest police station or cyber cell for assistance.

For children, additional support is available through Childline 1098, which offers free counseling and help.

Mental health experts strongly recommend speaking to a counselor or psychologist, as cyber bullying can leave long-lasting emotional scars. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness—it is an act of courage.

Awareness Is the Strongest Defense

Scammers and online bullies often rely on silence, fear, and confusion. Regularly checking privacy settings, talking openly about online experiences, and staying alert can prevent many incidents before they escalate.

Cyber bullying is a harsh reality of the digital age, but it can be tackled with awareness, timely action, and support systems. Remember, no one deserves to be harassed online—and help is always available.

Bottom Line:
If you or someone you know is facing cyber bullying, do not ignore it. Take screenshots, report the abuse, file a complaint, and seek emotional support. A small step taken today can prevent serious harm tomorrow.