What Is Cyberbullying? Understanding the Modern Threat

Cyberbullying occurs when electronic gadgets like mobile phones, computers, social media, and Internet services are used as a means to intentionally hurt someone in cyberspace. With cyberbullying, negative content can be shared, saved, and spread online, and a victim can be bullied 24/7.

Cases of cyberbullying have increased over time globally. According to Microsoft’s Global Online Safety Survey 2024, respondents’ top concern is personal risks (77%)⁴, which includes hate speech, cyberbullying, harassment, abuse, threats of violence and more. In Singapore, since more children and teenagers have their own phones and social media accounts, this gives them a greater opportunity to cyberbully and be cyberbullied. 

To protect the children and youth, parents, educators, and society need to understand what cyberbullying is, recognise its signs, and know how to address it effectively.

What Is the Definition of Cyberbullying? 

Cyberbullying is any form of bullying that takes place over digital platforms, including social media, text messages, email, and online forums. Its meaning can be summarised as using technology to harass, threaten, embarrass, or target another individual, often repeatedly. Unlike traditional bullying, which happens face-to-face, cyberbullying can occur at any time, which makes controlling such behaviour and mitigating negative impacts more challenging due to the online nature of the attacks.

A recent study conducted in Singapore by the Sunlight Alliance for Action (AfA) in 2022 revealed nearly half of participants - including Singaporeans and permanent residents aged 15 and above - reported experiencing some form of online harm, such as cyberbullying or online stalking.¹ This highlights the growing concern surrounding cyberbullying in Singapore and the need for increased awareness and action to protect vulnerable individuals.

Types of Cyberbullying: Where and How Does Cyberbullying Commonly Occur?

In Singapore, a survey conducted by the Singapore Children’s Society found that one in four children has been a victim of cyberbullying. Cyberbullying can occur in various forms, such as through texting and messaging platforms, social media platforms, gaming platforms and forums. Here are some of the most common occurrences:

Harassing Messages

This is one of the most direct forms of cyberbullying. It involves sending hurtful, threatening, or abusive messages to the victim, possibly anonymously too. These messages can be relentless, making the victim feel unsafe or overwhelmed. Example:

Flaming: This involves sending angry, rude, or vulgar messages online, such as a forum or chat room. Flaming is typically brief but can escalate into more severe forms of harassment.

Spreading Rumours

Cyberbullies can spread false information or rumours about someone on social media, embarrassing or shaming the victim. Given the speed at which information travels online today, this can have devastating and irreversible consequences. Example:

False rumour: A student posts on social media that a classmate cheated on an exam, even though it isn't true. The spread of this rumour online can quickly reach a large audience, leading to social isolation and emotional distress for the victim.

Impersonation

This involves the cyberbully pretending to be someone else online to damage the victim’s reputation or relationships. The cyberbully may create fake profiles or send messages as the victim, leading to misunderstandings and social isolation due to this spread of misinformation. For example, hacking someone’s social media and sending out hurtful or embarrassing messages while pretending to be them. Example:

Catfishing: Catfishing occurs when a bully creates a fake online persona to deceive or manipulate someone. Once the truth is revealed, the victim may experience emotional distress.

Public Shaming

Cyberbullies might post embarrassing photos or videos of the victim without consent, leading to public humiliation. This type of cyberbullying is particularly damaging to the victim, and may cause mental distress, especially as such personal materials may damage the individual’s reputation and be difficult to remove once it’s circulated online. Example:

Embarrassing Media: Someone takes an embarrassing photo of a friend without their consent and posts it online, encouraging others to mock them. The goal is to embarrass the victim in front of others, leading to potential severe emotional harm.

Exclusion

Another form of cyberbullying involves intentionally excluding someone from online groups, forums, or social media chats, leading the victim to feel rejected and isolated. Example:

Group Chat Isolation: A group of friends starts a new group chat but intentionally leaves out one member, making them feel unwanted and excluded.

A survey conducted by the Singapore Children’s Society revealed that the most prevalent forms of cyberbullying in Singapore were verbal attacks. Over half of the victims (50.4%) reported being subjected to vulgar language, while slightly more than a third (34.9%) were hurt by name-calling. Additionally, 29.5% experienced the spreading of negative rumours about them, making it the third most common form of cyberbullying.⁸

What Are the Potential Effects of Cyberbullying?

*Note: Not all effects will appear for victims of cyberbullying

The effects of cyberbullying can be long-lasting and damaging, particularly to children and teenagers. Unlike traditional bullying, where victims can often find refuge at home, cyberbullying follows victims everywhere, coupled with the pervasive nature of technology.

Emotional Impact

Victims of cyberbullying may experience anxiety, depression, and a sense of helplessness. They may also feel humiliated, embarrassed, and isolated, which can erode their self-esteem over time.

Social Withdrawal

People who are cyberbullied may withdraw from social activities, avoiding friends, family, school and work. This withdrawal can lead to loneliness and increased feelings of isolation.

Performance Decline

Cyberbullying may also negatively impact academic and work performance. For children, cyberbullying can negatively impact their academic performance. For victims who are working, they may also experience disruptions to their working capabilities and productivity levels.

Physical Symptoms

The stress of cyberbullying may manifest in physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomachaches, and sleep disturbances. These health issues can further contribute to the victim’s overall decline in well-being.

Long-Term Consequences

For some, the trauma of cyberbullying may lead to long-term psychological issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In severe cases, victims may develop suicidal thoughts or tendencies.

What Are the Signs of Cyberbullying?

Whether you are a parent, a guardian, or a friend, it is essential to be aware of the signs that someone you know may be a victim of cyberbullying. While everyone reacts differently, some common indicators include:

Emotional Changes

If an individual becomes unusually sad, angry, or anxious, it could be a sign of cyberbullying. Watch for sudden mood swings or irritability that seem out of character.

Avoidance of Technology

An individual being cyberbullied may start avoiding their phone, computer, or social media altogether. They may become anxious when they receive notifications or messages.

Social Withdrawal

If an individual begins to withdraw from social activities, friends, or family, it could be due to cyberbullying. They may feel ashamed or embarrassed by what is happening online.

Decline in Academic Performance

A sudden decline in performance in schools or at work or a lack of interest in schoolwork or daily activities can be a sign that an individual is struggling with cyberbullying. They may find it difficult to focus or stay motivated.

Physical Symptoms

Cyberbullying can also lead to physical symptoms, such as difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite, or unexplained illnesses like headaches or stomachaches.

If you notice these signs, openly conversing with the individual about their experiences online is a crucial first step.

How Can You Help If Someone You Know Is Being Cyberbullied?

If someone you know is being cyberbullied, it is essential to take immediate action. Here are some steps you can take to support them:

Stop

Stop the online activities which are uncomfortable or hurtful.

Block

Cut off all lines of communication. Use available features to block off the cyberbullies.

Save

Save all the offensive and hateful content as evidence.

Tell

Tell the victim to confide in trusted people (e.g., parents, teachers or close friends) about the incident.

Report

Report the incident on major platforms Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, YouTube, and Hardwarezone.

Are there any resources available to help victims of cyberbullying?

In Singapore, various resources are available to help victims of cyberbullying. Organisations like TOUCH Community Services offer counselling services and workshops to prevent and address cyberbullying.

If you are a victim of cyberbullying or know a cyberbullying victim, you can get support by dialling one of the helplines available.

• TOUCH Community Services – for help on a range of cyber wellness issues
  Phone: 1800 377 2252

• Fei Yue Community Services – for practical and emotional guidance for youth
  Phone: 6422 1599
  Email: project180@fycs.org

• Tinkle Friend – hotline for primary-school aged children
  Phone: 1800 2744 788

• Samaritans of Singapore – for emotional support for suicide-related issues
  Phone: 1767

• SHECares @ SCWO – online harms support centre
  Phone: 8001014616
  Email: contactus@she.org.sg

Tackling Cyberbullying in Singapore

Cyberbullying is a pervasive issue that requires attention and action. Understanding the definition of cyberbullying, recognising the signs, and knowing how to intervene are critical steps in protecting children and teens from the harmful effects of online harassment. By fostering open communication, promoting digital safety, and seeking professional help when needed, we can mitigate the impact of cyberbullying and support those affected by it.

Addressing cyberbullying in Singapore requires a collaborative effort between parents, schools, and the broader community. With awareness and action, we can create a safer online environment for everyone.

References:

1. Marsiling Secondary School. (n.d.). Helping Your Child Manage Cyber Bullying. Marsiling Secondary School. https://www.marsilingsec.moe.edu.sg/files/Tip-Sheet-on-Cyber-Bullying.pdf
2. Digital for Life. (2023, November 29). Preventing cyberbullying: A youth’s guide. https://www.digitalforlife.gov.sg/learn/resources/all-resources/youth-cyber-bullying
3. The Edge Singapore. (2024, August 28). Double-clicking on digital safety with Microsoft. The Edge Singapore. https://www.theedgesingapore.com/digitaledge/digital-economy/double-clicking-digital-safety-microsoft.
4. Microsoft. (2024, February). Global Online Safety Survey 2024. Microsoft. https://news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/40/2024/02/Microsoft-Global-Online-Safety-Survey-2024.pdf
5. Digital for Life. (2024, June 5). Spot and stop cyberbullying in its tracks. https://www.digitalforlife.gov.sg/Learn/Resources/All-Resources/Spot-And-Stop-Cyberbullying-In-Its-Tracks
6. Digital for Life. (2023, November 29). Preventing cyberbullying: A youth’s guide. https://www.digitalforlife.gov.sg/learn/resources/all-resources/youth-cyber-bullying
7. Channel News Asia. (2023, February 18). Cyberbullying damaging young lives, yet rampant in Singapore. Channel News Asia. https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/cyberbullying-damaging-young-lives-rampant-big-read-3238221
8. Singapore Children's Society. (n.d.). 1 in 4 secondary school students bullied. Singapore Children's Society. https://www.childrensociety.org.sg/1-in-4-secondary-school-students-bullied