What is Cyber Bullying?
A sort of harassment and bullying is committed through digital or communicative devices such as a computer, mobile phone, or laptop. This would include posting false and misleading and abusive statements about the victims on social networking sites, leaving hurtful comments on the victim's posts, exchanging morphed/private pictures of the victims without her consent, and sending rape and death threats to the victim, among other things.
Forms of Cyber Bullying
- Posting false and misleading statements about victims on social media
- Leaving hurtful and abusive comments on victim's posts
- Sharing morphed or private pictures without consent
- Sending rape and death threats
- Creating fake profiles to harass victims
- Spreading rumors and false information online
- Excluding someone from online groups deliberately
Legal Punishment
Section 507 IPC
Makes the offence punishable with imprisonment which may extend up to two years.
Section 66E of IT Act
Any person who intentionally violates the privacy by transmitting, capturing or publishing private pictures of anyone shall be punished with imprisonment which may extend up to three years or with fine which may extend up to Rs. 2 Lac.
How to Report Cyber Bullying
- Document all evidence (screenshots, messages, posts)
- Report to the social media platform where it occurred
- File a complaint with local police
- Report online through National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal
- Seek support from counselors or support groups
- Contact women helplines for guidance
Prevention and Safety Tips
- Use privacy settings on social media accounts
- Be cautious about sharing personal information
- Block and report abusive users immediately
- Don't respond to or engage with bullies
- Keep evidence of harassment for legal purposes
- Seek support from trusted friends and family