unhackchildhood.com/topics/cyberbullying · Reviewed September 24, 2026
DO THIS FIRST
Take back some control.
- 01
Do not answer while you are angry or scared. A fast reply can make the situation harder to contain.
- 02
Save screenshots, usernames, links, dates, and times before blocking or reporting anything.
- 03
Block or mute the account after the evidence is saved.
- 04
Tell a trusted adult. If school relationships are involved, report it to the school even when it happened off campus.
- 05
Call 911 for an immediate threat. Call or text 988 if someone may hurt themselves or is in a mental health crisis.
FOR STUDENTS
No shame. Just the next move.
- You are not being dramatic by asking for help. Online harm can follow you into school, sports, and home.
- If the first adult does not help, tell another one. Try a counselor, teacher, coach, nurse, or family member.
- Help a targeted friend privately. Do not turn their situation into more public content.
FOR PARENTS
Contain first. Debrief later.
- Start with: “I’m glad you told me. You are not in trouble.” Then listen before taking the phone away.
- Create a timeline and save evidence in a folder that your child does not need to keep reopening.
- Ask what outcome your child wants. Safety comes first, but including them in the plan restores some control.
TRUSTED NEXT STOPS
Official help and reporting.
Report cyberbullying ↗Official federal steps for documenting and reporting cyberbullying.NMRSD bullying prevention and reporting ↗District information and school-specific incident report forms.Massachusetts help for families ↗State guidance for parents and caregivers.
Reviewed September 24, 2026. External guidance changes; confirm time-sensitive steps on the linked official site.
SET IT UP