Many of us today spend a lot of time text messaging on mobile phones or are online using instant messaging applications. This technology has made it easier for us to stay in touch with friends, share photos or videos, even console friends when they’re down or need advice. Technology has made us contactable anywhere we go and whatever we’re doing. But as much as it used for good, technology is also being used negatively and sometimes with tragic affects.

Cyberbullying happens when people use the internet, mobile phones, or other devices to send or post text or images intended to hurt or embarrass another person.

This new style of bullying is a serious problem that in 2007 affected more than a third of students in Singapore. Per capita, Singapore is second only to the United States in reported cyberbullying cases.

There are many reasons why people are bullied. What is seen as a bit of fun by some people can be of great distress to the victims of that abuse.

Whether you’ve been a victim of cyberbullying, know someone who has been cyberbullied, or have even cyberbullied yourself, there are steps you and your friends can take to stop cyberbullying and stay cyber-safe.

If you are receiving threatening or malicious messages by SMS or online then the first thing to do is to tell a family member or your teacher. Also don’t delete the messages, you may need them in case an identity check is required.

If you’re getting abuse via email, block the email address or make it go directly to your junk box.

Don’t reply to any messages. Remember a bully wants to get your reaction, if he or she receives none they will usually lose interest and give up.

The use of technology to taunt, tease and abuse others is a serious one and despite being an issue that is hard to control we can do things to stop it. We all tease each other from time to time but remember it is a thin line between fun and abuse. Be careful what you say and take action if the bullying is upsetting you or making you feel uncomfortable.

Make sure you win over technology, don’t let technology win over you. Be safe online and use it to have fun with you friends, not to make fun of your friends and peers.

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