Cyberbullying
What is cyberbullying?
Using technology (specifically social media) to harass, threaten, embarrass, or target another person.
If someone you just met online starts asking personal questions right away, what should you do?
Don’t share personal information and block or report them
What’s a digital footprint?
All the information about you that exists online, even from posts you’ve deleted.
What is online grooming?
When an adult builds a relationship with a minor to exploit or abuse them
What’s the best way to handle online arguments?
Don’t escalate it! Log off, cool down, and talk in person if needed
How can you respond if you or someone else is being bullied online?
Block the person, report the content, or talk to a trusted adult
What’s a red flag in a new online friendship?
They pressure you to keep things secret or move conversations to private apps
What is a risk of showing your exact location on social media? (ex: snap map)
People you know or don't know are able to track exactly where you are
What kind of accounts should you be extra cautious about responding to online?
Accounts with no real name, few followers, or suspicious activity
What is “cancel culture” and why can it be harmful?
Publicly shaming or boycotting someone online—it can ruin reputations and mental health
True or False: Cyberbullying only happens between strangers. Why?
False. Cyberbullying often happens between classmates or people who know each other
What might it mean if someone online keeps love-bombing or complimenting you excessively?
It could be grooming—a tactic used by predators to build trust and control
A random app asks for microphone access but doesn’t need sound to work. What could this mean?
The app could secretly record you without your knowledge
Why is it dangerous to share intimate photos—even with someone you trust?
They can be shared without your consent or used to blackmail you later.
What does it mean to “subtweet” or “vague post”?
Posting indirectly about someone without naming them, usually to stir drama
What are two emotional effects cyberbullying can have on a person?
Anxiety, depression, loneliness, low self-esteem
Why is it a red flag if someone wants to video chat only when your parents aren’t home?
Because they may be hiding inappropriate intentions or don’t want witnesses
What is facial recognition, and how can social media platforms use it?
Technology that identifies people from images. Platforms can use it to tag photos or collect data.
What should you do if an adult sends you inappropriate content?
Don’t respond. Take screenshots, block, and report it to a trusted adult or authority.
You see a rude comment about your friend and want to clap back. Why might that make things worse?
It keeps the drama going, can be screenshotted, and could get you in trouble, too. Remember digital footprint!!!
What is “bystander behavior” online, and why is it important?
When someone witnesses bullying but doesn’t take action. Speaking up or reporting can help stop the behavior.
Name three behaviors that could signal digital manipulation or coercion
Guilt-tripping, threatening to share secrets, isolating from friends
You use the same password for Instagram, your school email, and Netflix. What could go wrong?
It's easier for someone to hack into all of your accounts
Why do predators often pretend to be someone your age or your friend?
To lower your guard and make you trust them more easily
How can followers/friend counts affect how people feel about themselves?
It can create pressure to be “popular” or lead to anxiety if numbers drop