Cybermobbing

Cybermobbing is the coordinated use of digital technologies to harass, threaten, or humiliate a person or group. It often involves repeated abuse and is facilitated by online platforms such as social media, messaging apps, forums, and gaming communities. Tactics include harassment, spreading rumors, doxxing, impersonation, and mass reporting.

Victims are often adolescents, but adults can be affected. The public nature of online content, peer presence, and perceived anonymity can intensify harm. Cybermobbing can coexist with offline bullying and follow victims across devices.

Effects include psychological distress, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbance, academic or work decline, and in extreme cases self-harm or withdrawal from social life. The harm can extend to bystanders who may experience fear or guilt.

Contributing factors include perceived social hierarchy, group amplification, anonymity, lack of accountability, fear of retaliation, and peer pressure. Bystanders may participate, help the target, or remain passive; both active and passive responses influence outcomes.

Prevention relies on digital literacy, empathy education, clear reporting channels, and policies by schools, workplaces, and platforms. Victims should document abuse, adjust privacy settings, report to authorities, seek support, and involve trusted adults.

Legal responses vary by jurisdiction and may cover threats, stalking, harassment, and non-consensual sharing of private material. Institutions and platforms offer reporting mechanisms, safety tools, and access to counseling. Early intervention is key to reducing harm.