Cyber-bullying, Cyber-harassing or Cyber-stalking are usually defined as that which occurs anytime someone uses a digital technology device (computers, cell phones, tablets, or any electronic device) to send or post text or images intended to: hurt, embarrass, humiliate, harass, harm, intimidate, stalk, torment, defraud, threaten, or otherwise target or that references a name, persona, domain addr
ess, or other item of identifying information of the victim. Cyber-bullying can be as simple as continuing to send e-mail to someone who has said they want no further contact with the sender, but it may also include threats, sexual remarks, hate remarks, ganging up on victims by making them the subject of ridicule in forums, and posting private or false statements as fact aimed at humiliation. Behaviors that are traditionally considered “bullying” among youth and teens often require new attention and strategies in adult bullies. Many of these behaviors are considered crimes under state and federal harassment and stalking laws and may trigger serious consequences after the age of 18. Cyber-bullying can take place as a direct attack (messages sent directly) and cyber-bullying by proxy (using others to help cyberbully the victim; with or without the accomplice's knowledge). As outlined by the National Cyber Security Alliance, the definition of harassment via the internet outlines abusive behavior that relies on offensive postings, direct messages and third-party emails to accomplish its goal. This form of electronic harassment includes the creation of websites with the express intent of posting compromising or doctored photos and the setup of Facebook groups that have the stated goal of discussing the shortcomings of a person, divulging personal information or making fun of the individual. In many cases it also can involve the use of other social networking sites, such as Twitter or MySpace or any web site, to disseminate offensive postings about someone. Examples of cyber-bullying include, but are not limited to:
• Sending hurtful, rude, or mean text messages to others
• Spreading rumors or lies about others by e-mail or on social networks
• Creating websites, videos or social media profiles that embarrass, humiliate, or make fun of others. Bullying online is very different from face-to-face bullying because messages and images can be:
• Sent 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year
• Shared to a very wide audience
• Sent anonymously
The United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team (CERT) advises that the local police department is an excellent first contact when taking legal action against the harassment. Depending on the extent of the cyber-attack and if it crossed state lines as it traveled through cyber-space, the FBI might be a good second. Online Harassment laws can result in serious charges filed against a cyber-bully, or group of cyber-bullies
• A 3rd Degree Felony is punishable by imprisonment for 2 to 10 years, and in addition, you may be fined up to $10,000.
• A Class A Misdemeanor is punishable by imprisonment for up to 1 year, and in addition, you may be fined up to $4,000. REMEMBER:
Everything done on the internet is stored, logged, and archived on your computers, cell phones, cell phone carriers, social networking sites, internet service providers, servers, and computer clouds.
***“Cyber-bullying” is a term usually used to describe a child abuser against another child, while “Cyber-harassing” and “Cyber-stalking” are reserved for adult crimes that can carry harsher criminal and civil consequences. The additional factor of adult victims not liking the stigma of being “bullied,” gives further reason for the distinction. However, because of the prevalence of such “bullying” behavior, and the childish manner that it has become common-place amongst our communities without thought or concern for the consequences, we will be referring to the three under the term that best describes them, CYBER-BULLIES.
