Cyberbullying and Online Harassment
Expert-defined terms from the Global Certificate in Cyber Psychology course at LearnUNI. Free to read, free to share, paired with a professional course.
Anonymous Harassment #
The use of technology to harass or threaten someone while hiding one's identity. This can include creating fake social media profiles or sending threatening emails from a false address.
Cyberbullying #
The use of technology to harass, threaten, or intimidate someone. This can include sending mean or threatening messages, posting embarrassing or harmful content, or even spreading rumors online. Cyberbullying can have serious emotional and psychological consequences for victims.
Cyberstalking #
The use of the internet or other electronic means to stalk or harass someone. This can include repeatedly sending unwanted messages or emails, monitoring someone's online activity, or making threats. Cyberstalking is a criminal offense and can be punishable by law.
Doxing #
The act of researching and publishing personal information about someone on the internet, usually with malicious intent. This can include home addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and other sensitive information. Doxing can be used as a form of harassment or intimidation.
Flaming #
The act of sending angry or abusive messages to someone online. This can include name-calling, insults, or threats. Flaming is a form of cyberbullying that can have serious emotional and psychological consequences for victims.
Hate Speech #
Speech that attacks or insults a person or group based on their race, religion, gender, or other characteristic. Hate speech is not protected by free speech laws and can be illegal in some cases.
Online Harassment #
The use of the internet or other electronic means to harass or threaten someone. This can include sending mean or threatening messages, posting embarrassing or harmful content, or even spreading rumors online. Online harassment can take many forms and can have serious emotional and psychological consequences for victims.
Phishing #
The act of sending fraudulent emails or messages that appear to be from a legitimate source, in order to steal sensitive information such as passwords or credit card numbers. Phishing is a form of cybercrime that can lead to identity theft and financial fraud.
Sexting #
The act of sending sexually explicit messages or images via mobile phone or the internet. Sexting can be consensual between adults, but it can also be a form of cyberbullying or online harassment when done without consent or to exploit someone.
Sock Puppet #
A fake online identity used for deceptive purposes, such as posting positive reviews of one's own product or posting negative reviews of a competitor's product. Sock puppets can also be used for harassment or cyberbullying.
Trolling #
The act of posting inflammatory or offensive comments online with the intention of provoking a reaction or causing trouble. Trolling can be a form of cyberbullying and can have serious emotional and psychological consequences for victims.
Victim Blaming #
The attitude of blaming the victim for the actions of the perpetrator. In the context of cyberbullying and online harassment, victim blaming can take the form of blaming the victim for not being able to handle the harassment or for not taking steps to protect themselves. Victim blaming is harmful and unproductive, and it can prevent victims from seeking help or support.
White Knighting #
The act of coming to the defense of someone, usually a woman, in a protective or chivalrous manner. While white knighting can be well-intentioned, it can also be patronizing and can reinforce gender stereotypes. In the context of cyberbullying and online harassment, white knighting can also be used to silence or dismiss the experiences of victims.
It's important to note that cyberbullying and online harassment can have serious… #
If you or someone you know is experiencing cyberbullying or online harassment, it's important to seek help and support. This can include reporting the behavior to the appropriate authorities, blocking the perpetrator, and seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional. It's also important to educate yourself and others about the dangers of cyberbullying and online harassment, and to take steps to protect yourself and others online.