Help protect your child from cyberbullying
From Public Safety Canada
Cyberbullying is serious — but it can be stopped.
Most youth spend a lot of time online. There is a good chance your child has witnessed, been the target of, or even been cyberbullied themselves. There are actions you can take to prepare and protect your child in case it ever happens to them.
What is cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying is using computers, smartphones, or other connected devices to embarrass, hurt, humiliate, torment, threaten or harass someone online. It is a serious issue that we can stop together.
Learn more about cyberbullying
Take action to stop cyberbullying
Your child is being cyberbullied
Support your child by learning the warning signs, keeping lines of communication open, and being ready to take action.
Prepare your child against cyberbullying
Help your child be ready to deal with cyberbullying by talking to them about online safety and how to respond to cyberbullying.
You think your child is a cyberbully
Take steps to address your child's actions by talking with them, monitoring their online behaviour, and ensuring they understand the seriousness of cyberbullying.
Video
An animated video (that you can show your kids) that introduces the topic of online reputation and gives high-level advice.
Transcript
Whether you're doing homework, chatting with friends, or playing games, you probably spend a lot of time online. And just like when you're face to face with others, the things you say and do online can affect your reputation.
When you do or say things online that are hurtful, like leaving mean comments, sharing someone's sexual images, or cyberbullying someone, you can damage your online reputation, which can affect how people see you and treat you. It can give others a negative impression of you, and it might affect your relationships and friendships. It can also hurt others.
There are lots of ways you can protect your online reputation. Use privacy settings, limit access to your posts to friends, and think twice before you post: if what you're doing or saying can hurt someone, just don't post it.
Remember, what you post online can be seen by anyone—friends, family, teachers, and employers—it can stay online forever. If you're worried about your online behaviour, or if someone else's actions online are upsetting you, you are not alone. Talk to a safe adult or visit KidsHelpPhone.ca.
[Onscreen: Learn more at Canada.ca/Cyberbullying]
Features
Booklet for teachers and parents of kids aged 6-11
Find additional information in this booklet for parents/caregivers of kids aged 6-11
Booklet for teachers and parents of kids aged 12-17
Find additional information in this booklet for parents/caregivers of kids aged 12-17
For more information
- Legal consequences of cyberbullying
Learn about possible charges and consequences. - Resources for parents, caregivers, and educators
Learn about our partner organizations and educational resources.
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