Foreword
Parents and guardians are encouraged to use their discretion when deciding what to share with their children on this page.
Cyber Bullying is:
Harassment
Harassment involves sending repeated and harmful messages that are offensive, rude, or abusive. This can include cruel comments on social media posts, photos, or videos, and often occurs in chat rooms, messaging apps, and online games.
Denigration
Denigration is the act of spreading false, damaging, or cruel information about someone. It may involve sharing altered photos to ridicule them, spreading fake rumours, or posting gossip meant to hurt or embarrass.
Flaming
Flaming is when someone uses aggressive or offensive language to provoke others in online arguments. These outbursts are often intended to upset people and create conflict for the bully’s entertainment.
Impersonation
This occurs when someone hacks or creates a fake account to pose as another person. They may use this fake identity to post harmful content or send messages designed to shame, embarrass, or hurt others.
Outing and Trickery
Outing is the act of sharing someone’s private information, messages, or images without their permission. Trickery involves deceiving someone into revealing secrets, which are then shared with others to cause harm or embarrassment.
Cyberstalking
Cyberstalking involves repeated, threatening, or intimidating online behaviour. This can include sending frightening messages, tracking someone’s activity, or making them feel unsafe. In some cases, cyberstalking is considered a criminal offense.
Exclusion
Exclusion is when someone is deliberately left out of online groups, chats, games, or activities. This form of social isolation can be deeply hurtful, especially among children and teenagers.
“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” – Romans 12:21 (NIV)
Cyberbullying Affects People:
Cyberbullying can lead to emotional distress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and even suicidal thoughts. It can feel inescapable because it often happens 24/7 and can reach a wide audience instantly.
“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” – Proverbs 18:21 (NIV)
This reminds us that our words — even online — have real power. As Christians, we are called to use our words to build others up, not tear them down.
What Can You Do About Cyberbullying?
If you’re being cyberbullied:
- Don’t respond to the bully.
- Save the evidence (screenshots, messages).
- Block the person and report them to the platform.
- Talk to someone you trust — a parent, teacher, pastor, or friend.
If you see someone else being bullied:
- Don’t join in or forward hurtful content.
- Support the person being targeted.
- Report what you see to an adult or through the app’s reporting system.
“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” – Romans 12:21 (NIV)
A Christian Response to Online Cruelty
As followers of Christ, we’re called to be different — to speak life, love our neighbours, and stand up for those who are hurting.
“Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up.” – Ephesians 4:29 (NIV)
Online or offline, let us reflect Christ in everything we do.
Stay Safe Online
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these forms of cyberbullying, it’s important to speak up. Talk to a trusted adult, report the behaviour to the platform, and seek support. No one deserves to be bullied—online or offline.
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