Cyberbullying: What You Need to Know

Cyberbullying is a serious issue that has the potential to impact peoples’ lives for a very long time, if not forever. Cyberbullying is especially harmful when family members are involved. It is not uncommon for couples who go through a divorce to experience a form of cyberbullying at some point.

What is Cyberbullying?

According to the U.S. government website, StopBullying.gov, “Cyberbullying is bullying that takes place over digital devices like cell phones, computers, and tablets. Cyberbullying can occur through SMS, Text, and apps, or online in social media, forums, or gaming where people can view, participate in, or share content. Cyberbullying includes sending, posting, or sharing negative, harmful, false, or mean content about someone else.”

Cyberbullying contains the following standout characteristics since it is quite different from other forms of bullying:

• Persistent: Technology provides the capability of being connected to everyone on Earth at all times. This can make it difficult for you to find relief if you are being consistently harassed online.

• Permanent: If the information online is not reported or removed, it will likely be permanently and publicly available. A derogatory digital reputation can pose problems for the bully and those who are bullied.

• Hard to Notice: Since others won’t likely be aware of the cyberbullying you endure, it is more difficult to identify.

What Can I Do If My Ex is Cyberbullying Me?

If you experience cyberbullying before, during, or after your divorce, the following tips can help:

• Keep all relevant evidence. Take screenshots of comments in case they are deleted. Retain everything negative that comes your way.

• Contact the platform where the bullying occurs. If you are being bullied on Facebook, make a report with Facebook to alert them of what’s happening. If you receive bullying phone calls or texts, contact your cell phone provider.

• Do not retaliate. Although it may be difficult not to snap back, the consequences of retaliation could be harsh. You don’t want to provide any reason for anyone to believe that you have contributed to the issue.

• If you fear for your safety, contact law enforcement. The police will look into any threats that have been made against you. Your evidence will help with the investigation.

If you have experienced cyberbullying or another cybersecurity issue of any form by your spouse before, during, or after your divorce, you may be entitled to compensation. The experienced attorneys at Wisselman, Harounian & Associates are highly skilled in this area of the law and have helped many others just like you. Don’t hesitate to contact our firm with your case right away.

Contact Wisselman, Harounian & Associates online or call (516) 773-8300 today to speak with an attorney about your case.