Cyberbullying is a fact of life in our digital-centric society, but there are ways to push back

27 Aug 2025
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4 min. read

For better or worse, the digital world in many ways resembles its physical counterpart. Unfortunately, that means it sometimes enables, and even exacerbates, the same bad behaviors that we often see offline. According to a 2023 Microsoft study covering 17 countries, “cyberbullying harassment and abuse” is the top concern for parents across the globe, preoccupying on average 39% of respondents.

If left to fester, it can have a significant impact on the mental health and even physical wellbeing of your kids. In some isolated cases, it has led to even more tragic outcomes for victims. We all need to make sure, therefore, that the beginning of the new term doesn’t kickstart a new surge in unacceptable online behavior.

New year, same old problems?

The aforementioned Microsoft study indicates that parents are slightly more concerned about cyberbullying than they are of the risk of child sexual exploitation, disinformation and threats of physical violence. It chimes with a Pew Research Center study claiming that around half of US teens have experienced online harassment, with older girls more likely to be in the firing line. This can take many forms, from name calling and the spreading of false rumors, to sharing of explicit images (potentially of the victim) and physical threats.

Such activity may be worse at the start of the new school year in September, when bullies may try to assert dominance over their peers, new cliques form and academic pressures create new anxieties. Both parents and schools may be focused on other matters at the start of the term, meaning potentially serious issues slip through the cracks. In this context, it’s vital that you’re able to spot the warning signs of cyberbullying before things spiral out of control.

How can I tell if my child is being bullied online?

Getting your child to open up about their experiences is the first and often hardest part about tackling cyberbullying. They may be embarrassed to tell you, or scared that it could make things worse. So keep your eyes peeled for sudden changes in behavior that may indicate something isn’t quite right.

This may include unusual mood swings, low self-esteem, a lack of interest in hobbies, big changes in screen time (more or less), avoidance of school/social gatherings and slipping grades. They may appear fatigued and change their eating habits. And they may become defensive if you try to talk about it.

Some best practices for tackling cyberbullying

It can be easier said than done, but trying to keep the lines of communication open in such circumstances is beyond doubt the most positive thing you can do. Anxiety and apprehension thrive in the silent spaces between our lives. It’s important that your kids know they can come to you with any problems they may be experiencing, without fear of judgement or reprisals.

For the same reason, it often pays not to intrude too much into their personal lives, unless you have cause to believe something serious is going on. Asking open-ended questions like “how’s everything going?” may be a better bet than “are you being bullied?” And try and find a time and a place where you won’t be overheard. Embarrassment is a strong emotion among teens and a formidable barrier to having honest conversations.

There are also some more proactive things you can do to mitigate the risk of cyberbullying. Talk to your kids about online privacy and safety. Take time to understand what apps they use and make sure the settings are age-appropriate and privacy enhanced. Be sure they know the risks of hanging out on social media sites and gaming platforms, and of threats like sextortion and deepfake nudes. They need to develop a healthy scepticism of anyone they interact with online, especially if they’ve not met in person. Unsolicited friend requests from strangers should be dismissed outright. It might help as part of this to understand exactly who your children’s friends are on- and offline.

A more hands-on option may be to adjust your kids’ smartphone settings to limit access to certain content and screentime or install parental monitoring software. If you’re keen to do so, remember to explain first to your child why you’re doing it. Fail to get buy in and your plans may come unstuck at the hands of a determined teen.

A worst-case scenario

If you discover your child is being bullied online, don’t panic. Talk it through calmly, find out exactly what’s happening and how it’s making them feel. And don’t overreact. What you need to do is show your child how to block the bully, then screenshot and keep any and all evidence. Report the incident to the relevant online platforms. And, if relevant, arrange a meeting with your school.

Bullying is unfortunately a part of many children’s lives. And with access to mobile devices, the bullies can reach further into your home than they ever used to. But you also have some powerful tools at your disposal: empathy, patience, tech know-how and love.

Be observant. Pay attention to what your kids are going through. Give them space and support. Teach them how to use and configure their tech properly. And be there with a plan and a hug if things take a turn for the worse.

Further resources

The following websites offer advice and contacts for counseling services:

Cyberbullying Research Center (United States)

National Bullying Helpline (United Kingdom)

Kidshelpline (Australia)

Netsafe (New Zealand)

Cyber B.A.A.P. (India)

Bully-Free (Singapore)

Cybersmile (various countries)