At the recent release of their Annual Report, the ISPCC indicated that from the work they are engaged in every day, cyber safety is the biggest safety concern of our time. Cyberbullying: It’s Everyone’s Concern, At Zeeko when working with primary and secondary schools throughout the country, we promote the message of the internet being a fantastic resource but that children, be they younger children or teens, need guidance and support to navigate the internet in order that for them to make smart choices and stay safe when they are online. In particular now that there are so many digital devices which can be used to access the internet children really do need to know how best to stay safe online. Cyberbullying may sound like a new concept but essentially it is the most current form of something that has unfortunately been around in school yards and homes for many years. The main difference between cyberbullying and more traditional forms of bullying is that technology means that it is very difficult, sometimes impossible to ‘get away’ from the bullying, as it is constant.
What is Cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying involves using digital technology—such as smartphones, social media, messaging apps, or online forums—to intimidate, threaten, embarrass, or harass another person. It can take many forms, including:
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Sending inappropriate or abusive messages
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Posting offensive or unflattering images
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Sharing harmful rumours or false information
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Excluding someone from online groups or chats
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Repeatedly targeting someone through digital platforms
For a child experiencing any of these behaviours, the emotional impact can be extremely distressing. Parents and teachers often ask what they can do, and the good news is that early action, reassurance, and ongoing support make a significant difference.
How to Support Your Child if they are Experiencing Cyberbullying?
1. Encourage Them Not to Respond: This may seem simple, but it is one of the most effective first steps. Engaging with a bully often escalates the situation. Many bullies thrive on the reaction they receive. By not replying, your child removes that sense of power.
2. Review Safety and Privacy Settings: Sit with your child and go through the safety settings on their devices and apps. Most social networks allow users to:
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Block the person responsible
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Report abusive behaviour
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Limit who can view their content
These tools exist to protect young people—ensure your child knows how to use them.
3. Reassure Your Child That They Are Not Alone: Cyberbullying can lead to fear, anxiety, embarrassment, and a drop in self-esteem. Make sure your child knows they can speak openly with you, that their feelings are valid, and that you will support them throughout the process.
4. Contact the Gardaí if the Bullying Escalates: If threats are made, or if explicit or harmful images are shared, you should report the incident to the Gardaí. Laws in Ireland relating to online harassment and harmful digital communications continue to evolve, and these protections exist to keep children safe.
5. Encourage Taking Time Offline: One of the most challenging aspects of cyberbullying is its constant nature. If your child feels overwhelmed, taking a break from screens and social media can help reduce stress and limit exposure to harmful content. Time offline can give them space to reflect and regain confidence.
Cyberbullying Is a Community Issue
Cyberbullying is an unfortunate reality of the digital age, but addressing it requires a whole-community approach—including parents, teachers, schools, the Gardaí, and policymakers. When adults model positive digital behaviour and provide clear guidance, children are better equipped to navigate online spaces safely.
Cyberbullying is everyone’s concern, and by working together, we can help create safer digital environments for all young people.
Cyberbullying is very sadly a part of living in a digital age. Dealing with it is the business of the entire community be that parents, teachers, the Gardaí and those who legislate. The most effective solution for cyberbullying will undoubtedly come from the communities in which we live. Dealing with cyberbullying is everyone’s concern.
FAQs
1. What is the definition of cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying refers to bullying that takes place through digital devices such as smartphones, computers, or tablets. It includes sending harmful messages, posting offensive content, or engaging in repeated online harassment.
2. What are the signs that a child might be experiencing cyberbullying?
Common signs include withdrawing from conversations, anxiety around devices, changes in behaviour, sudden mood swings, reluctance to attend school, or secrecy around their online activity.
3. How can parents prevent cyberbullying?
Parents can encourage open communication, set clear online boundaries, review privacy settings, discuss respectful online behaviour, and stay engaged with their child’s digital life.
4. Should a child respond to cyberbullying messages?
No. Responding often intensifies the situation. It is best to avoid replying and instead document the messages and take action through blocking, reporting, and seeking adult support.
5. When should cyberbullying be reported to the Gardaí?
Report incidents that involve threats, blackmail, harassment, stalking, or the sharing of explicit or harmful images. The law in Ireland protects young people from digital abuse.
6. Is taking a break from devices helpful?
Yes. Time offline can reduce stress, provide emotional space, and limit exposure to harmful messages. It can also help parents better support and guide their child.
7. What role do schools play in tackling cyberbullying?
Schools play a major role by educating students about online safety, promoting digital wellbeing, encouraging open conversations, and supporting parents and pupils when issues arise.
8. Can cyberbullying affect mental health?
Yes. Cyberbullying can contribute to anxiety, low self-esteem, sadness, and social withdrawal. Early intervention and supportive adults are vital for a child’s wellbeing.
Explore Zeeko’s Home Page to discover our mission on the About Us Page, innovative Phone Blocking System, and engaging Phoenix Quest 10 programme. We provide Internet Safety Seminars, the Zeeko Report Card, and the Magical Leaders Choose Country initiative, alongside insights from our Digital Trend Report. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for updates.