Cyber bullying in India and dealing with offensive messages

In today’s modern world one simply cannot live without possessing smartphones, laptops, or any other device that allows us to easily surf the internet. The internet is without doubt the best available resource provided to us wherein we can keep in touch with far off relatives, do our homework, take pictures and even shop. However, these advantages which make life easier for us are often misused by some.

Therefore, we may also get into trouble through the sharing of inappropriate images, joining in on online bullying on a website or any messenger app, or can even getting ripped off by someone we may have met through a website and hence we must know the ways to protect ourselves from these threats and also ensure that we are not perpetuating these practices online.

SheThePeople conducts the Digital Trust Dialogues in Kamala Nehru College with Google India

Cyber bullying refers to the cruel, offensive messages sent to you by someone online, more often than not, anonymously.

Recently, cyber bullying has become a major crisis. The bullying can have severe effects  on the mental state of the person being bullied. Cyber bullying refers to the cruel, offensive messages sent to you by someone online, more often than not, anonymously. It causes distress, undermines confidence and makes one feel lonely and depressed. It may also give rise to thoughts of committing suicide. Not responding, ignoring these messages and blocking the person who is sending these messages is the best way to deal with it. If the bullying doesn’t stop, seeking guidance from a trusted adult is the most advisable step.

Virus protection software is a must for every computer and should be updated regularly. Cyber bullying in India and dealing with offensive messages is often connected

Even emails, although relatively private, can be accessed by hackers. If you’re unable to recognize the sender of a document or file that needs to be downloaded, delete it without opening it to avoid getting a virus on your device. Virus protection software is a must for every computer and should be updated regularly.

Few more ways to be safe consist of keeping your device secure. Don’t lend anyone your phone to use without your supervision. Don't leave your phone around where someone can pick it up, and turn your laptop or tablet off when it isn’t required. Don't make it easy for other people to get a look at your personal information.

Don't leave your phone around where someone can pick it up, and turn your laptop or tablet off when it isn’t required. Don't make it easy for other people to get a look at your personal information.

Lastly, remember that any pictures or text messages that you send could become "leaked," or public, as soon as you hit send. Think about whether the words you've written or the pictures you're about to share are ones that you really want other people to read or see.

The author is a college student and this effort is a part of Google India and SheThePeople initiative Digital Trust Dialogues across colleges in India

Also Read: Data protection in India is priority as part of building safety nets