Cyberbullying on the rise, say experts

PETALING JAYA: With social media and the Internet becoming a necessity in people’s daily lives, the risk of cyberbullying is also on the rise.

Social experts are urging the public to be vigilant in identifying whether they are being targeted by cyberbullying and to learn effective strategies for dealing with such situations.

Professional psychologist Dr Anasuya Jegathevi Jegathesan advised Malaysians to set an emotional limit for themselves before engaging with others online.

“Cyberbullying is bullying. It has the same negative impact on self-esteem and mental health, and if people allow it to enter their homes and private spaces it can have a worse impact.

“Blocking all hostile contact and removing yourself from the conversation by switching off your social media account is the key first defence against emotional strain,” she said.

Anasuya said people should immediately seek police help if they feel their lives may be under threat and seek mental health support through counselling to rebuild their sense of self-esteem or security.

Malaysia Cyber Consumer Association president Siraj Jalil said Malaysians should refrain from responding to acts of cyberbullying online.

“By responding, it may prolong or encourage the cyberbully to continue. It is best to either deactivate your social media accounts or set your social media to maximum privacy settings,” he said.

He said those who suspect themselves of becoming victims should document everything related to cyberbullying, which can then be used as evidence in court.

“Take pictures and record everything so that they may be used by enforcement.

“We must also be honest and communicate with our loved ones or authorities, as sharing the stress will always help to soothe the nerves and allow us to think more rationally,” he said.

Kuala Lumpur Crime Prevention Practitioners Association chairman Bok Siew Mun also said victims of cyberbullies, especially students, should inform their parents, guardians or teachers immediately for them to take the necessary action.“Recognise the signs that may indicate your child is being cyberbullied.

“Children may not always be vocal about being bullied.

“Sometimes, cyberbullying can be simple to spot. For example, your children are nervous or scared about going to school or outside,” he said.