Here are some examples of behaviors that can be considered online abuse or harassment:
- Using social media to keep tabs on where someone is or who they’re talking to.
- Insulting someone privately or publicly on social media.
- Aggressively or constantly pestering for sexts or nude photos (especially after being told to stop).
- Demanding to look at someone else’s private messages.
- Controlling what social media accounts someone else can have, and who they can/can’t be friends with online.
Abuse and harassment are serious both online and offline. If someone is making you feel unsafe or attacked report the harassment to someone, like your teacher or principal, at your school or to your parents. If someone (even someone you’re in a relationship with) starts harassing you and you think you may decide to report it, it can be helpful to keep a record of messages they send or other harassing behavior.
You may want to reach out for support from friends, family, or other people you trust to help you navigate protecting yourself, deciding whether to make a report, or taking care of your feelings around being harassed. It is okay to get support.