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Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words (and texts, and images, and stolen passwords) will never hurt me.
That playground chant never rang true, even when updated for the information age. Bullying hurts just as much online. And it’s far more common than other risks to children who use the Internet, including online sexual predators.
What Is Cyberbullying?
A cyberbully is someone who uses Internet technology to act cruelly toward another person. Online attacks often hurt more than face-to-face bullying because children can be anonymous over the Internet and behave in ways they never would in person. Online attacks can take on a life of their own: A false rumor or a cruel prank can spread quickly among classmates and live on forever in personal computers and cell phones. And there can be no escape for the victim. A fresh new attack threatens wherever there’s an Internet connection, including the one place where they should feel safe: home.
Next: Cyberbullying Tactics May Include...
Is Your Child a Cyberbullying Victim?
5 Ways to Protect Your Child From Cyberbullying
Take Action Against Cyberbullies
Talking About Cyberbullying With Your Child
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