Cyberbullying & Cyberstalking

Protecting yourself online 

• Be cautious of anyone trying to befriend or communicate with you online. 
• Be vigilant about who you provide access to your device(s). 
• When you move away from your computer or device ensure it is locked. 
• Limit the amount of personal or financial information you post online. 
• Be careful who you trust online and keep a copy of conversations in case you need to report them. 
• If you have children talk to them about all the great things about being online, but also the risks – be honest and open. 
• Familiarise yourself with privacy and security settings for your device and the applications / software you download. 
• Disable your geo-locating services. 
• Protect your social media, email and banking accounts with strong passwords. 
• Regularly run anti-virus and anti-spyware. 
• Regularly change your passwords. 
• Be cautious opening attachments and clicking on links from people you don’t know. 
• Ensure the security on your home Wi-Fi is turned on and you have changed the default password to any modems or routers you may be using at home (talk to your service provider if needed). 
• Avoid using public Wi-Fi. If you need to, ensure you are using secure webpages and do not send information out whilst using it. 
• Talk to people you can trust to provide good advice about things you may be experiencing if you’re not sure – some bullying and stalking may not appear so when you first experience it. Get advice. 

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Detecting if things go wrong: 

• ‍Receiving constant messages/comments from someone. 
  
• You might notice a change in a friend or family member’s behaviour that seems unlike them. 
• You or someone you know are receiving uncomfortable / harassing / threatening messages. 
• Information or photos have been posted without your consent. 
• Someone has access to passwords or accounts. 
• Your accounts have been logged on in different locations. 

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Responding when things go wrong: 

• ‍If you or someone is in immediate danger call the Police (000 in Aust or 111 in NZ). 
  
• Don’t feel you need to go alone – talk to someone you trust or access any number of counselling services that can assist you work through what you are experiencing (eg. KidsHelpLine, BeyondBlue, LifeLine etc.). 
• Screenshot or save communications as evidence. 
• If you believe your device has been compromised and you are a survivor of family and domestic violence contact IDCARE. 
• Report cyberbullying to relevant social media site. 
• Block the sender. 
• Make a complaint to the eSafety Commissioner (Aust) or NetSafe (NZ). 
• If your image is being exploited download IDCARE’s Image Exploitation Fact Sheet on for the latest prevention and response advice.