The document discusses cyberbullying, defining it as the harassment of minors by other minors through digital means, and highlights its prevalence and serious consequences, including suicide. It outlines motivations behind cyberbullying, such as anger and boredom, and provides steps for victims to take, including blocking the bully and reporting the behavior. Additionally, it offers resources for internet safety and emphasizes the importance of understanding privacy settings and the permanence of digital footprints.

1. Internet Safety
Robert Schuetz
Fall, 2013

2. Cyberbullying
What is cyberbullying?
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Cyberbullying is when a minor is tormented, threatened, harassed,
humiliated, embarrassed, or otherwise targeted by another minor using the
Internet, interactive & digital technologies, or mobile phones.
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Cyberbullying can occur one of two ways; direct attacks, or by proxy
(using others to bully the victim, either with or without their knowledge)
Why should you care about cyberbullying?
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Students have killed each other and committed suicide after having been
involved in a cyberbullying episode.
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37% of students report having been bullied online, while 24% of students
admit to bullying someone else online. (Cyberbullying Research.US)
“Cyberbullying Charges Weighed After Suicide…” - Washington Post 9/15/13

3. Cyberbullying
Why do students resort to cyberbullying?
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Cyberbullies can be motivated by anger, frustration, & revenge.
Some kids cyberbully for attention, entertainment, or out of boredom.

4. Cyberbullying
What can I do about cyberbullying?
● Stop, block, & tell
1. Do nothing - take a few minutes to calm down
2. Block the cyberbully, or turn off the device
3. Report the offense to a trusted adult or support agency - call 911 if you feel
that you are in eminent danger.
School Support Team: One of your teachers, your administrator, your
guidance counselor, the school technology coordinator, the school police
consultant. **Any trusted adult

5. More about Internet Safety
●
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Know, understand, and frequently check social media privacy settings.
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Google yourself - check your digital tracks and make sure inappropriate, or
false information is not being posted about you online.
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Do not communicate with people that you haven't met "in real life".
Your digital footprints are permanent - think twice about what you share
online, in email, or in text messages.

6. Credits & Resources
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Schoology Group - "Internet Safety" (online resources, discussion board,
videos, games, and more)
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iSafe.org - Internet safety information for students, parents, and teachers.
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Illinois Attorney General - Lisa Madigan's web site for Internet Safety
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NetSmartz.org - Internet / Cyber safety information for schools and families
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Google Family Safety Center - information and videos for staying safe
online
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Common Sense Media - information and resources for educators, parents,
and students to make sound decisions about Internet and media use.