Police Urge Citizens to Seek Help With Online Bullying

Thursday, 22 October 2015 08:38

If you're facing online harassment and you've tried to get it to stop to no avail, the police are here to help.

WOODSTOCK - Woodstock Police are putting out a few tips on how to deal with online bullies.

They want the public to know if this is a constant problem, or if you feel threatened, it is ok to contact police. Most of the time the bullying is done by someone who was a former friend or loved one over a dispute. Constable Nikki VanLeeuwen says it is a good idea to settle these disputes face to face.

"I would suggest that you try to deal with a conflict face to face, because a lot of times there are miscommunications or someone is maybe upset about something and they kind of overreact, so it's important to open up communications. That would be your first step."

VanLeeuwen says if you feel you are being bullied, stop responding, don't threaten or bully back, and try to block or delete the person.

"Contact the service provider: so Facebook has an online reporting system where you can contact them directly. Also if you can take steps to stop it yourself by not engaging in the communications. If you stop communicating with the person then it ends the cycle of victimization."

Here are the seven tips Woodstock Police are offering to try to prevent becoming a victim of online bullying yourself:

1. Look for the signs - hateful messages, embarrassing or threatening images.

2. Identify the cause - Some bullies start as friends. Try to have a reasonable discussion. Sometimes people lash out because of their own insecurities. If you don't know the person you may need to contact the Police.

3. Stop Responding. Don't threaten or bully back.

4. Save the evidence. Record the time and date of each incident.

5. Block and delete the person.

6. Change your account settings. Don't reveal personal information. Create new accounts.

7. Get outside help. Parents, teachers, service providers or police.