Safeguarding your family from cyberbullying

If you’ve only got a minute:

• Cyberbullying and online dangers like identity theft are prevalent issues affecting youths today.
• Build an open, trusting relationship where your teen feels safe confiding in you about their online experiences. This allows for early detection and prevention of cyberbullying.
• If cyberbullying occurs, don't hesitate to consult a trusted individual or utilise available resources such as trauma counselling programmes.
• Understand your financial goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon before making any investment decisions.

Digital connectivity has become an integral part of our daily lives. From seeking information online to staying connected with friends and family through social media, the internet plays a crucial role in almost every aspect of our routine.

However, the online world is a double-edged sword. While digital connectivity provides many conveniences, it also exposes us to cybersecurity threats.

A 2022 study by the Sunlight Alliance for Action in Singapore found that nearly half of the 1,000 respondents aged 15 and above had experienced online harm, including stalking and cyberbullying. However, what is more concerning is that most of them did not inform their parents.¹ That is why, as parents, it is important to know what cyberbullying is and to learn about cybersecurity.

What is cyberbullying?

Cyberbullying involves using digital technologies, such as social media, messaging apps, to intentionally harm, intimidate or shame others. Examples include sending threatening or abusive messages, spreading lies or rumours, posting embarrassing content (sharing photos/videos without consent) and impersonating someone to harass someone (creating fake accounts).²

Some common places where cyberbullying occurs:

• Social Media, such as Facebook, Instagram and Tik Tok
• Text messaging and messaging apps on mobile or tablet devices
• Instant messaging, direct messaging and online chatting over the internet
• Email
• Online gaming communities
• Online forums, chat rooms and message boards

While younger children are especially vulnerable to the risks that come with early access to the internet and social media, older kids and teens are not spared.

A 2023 survey by SG Her Empowerment (SHE) found that younger people were more likely to have encountered online harm, with 52% of respondents who reported personal experience of such incidents ranging in age from 15 to 24.³

What is online harassment?

Online harassment involves behaviours that cause emotional and mental distress to an individual. This includes threatening or abusive messages, actions that induce fear or provoke violence and illegal stalking.

In 2020, the Parliament of Singapore updated the Protection of Harassment Act (POHA) to streamline procedures for online bullying and harassment, as well as to address offences such as doxing – publishing of information about someone’s identity that puts the victim at risk of serious harm to their reputation or safety.

What is identity theft?

Identity theft occurs when someone intentionally uses another person's identity, typically to obtain financial gain or other benefits at the victim's expense.

Teenagers are especially vulnerable to identity theft than any other age group as they are more likely to share their personal information online and are less likely to take necessary precautions to protect themselves. As a parent, it is essential to stay vigilant for any signs of suspicious activity involving your child.

Additionally, teenagers might click on phishing emails, allowing scammers to gain access to their accounts and obtain their personal information. They could unknowingly share sensitive information to strangers with ill intentions on social media. Recognising identity theft can help you keep your loved ones safe.

How to prevent cyber bullying

Tip 1: Awareness is key

Familiarising yourself with cyberbullying and other cybercrimes can help you identify ways to protect yourself from cyberbullying and safeguard your teen from potential digital threats.

According to a study by Pew Research Centre, the most common form of cyberbullying faced by teens aged 13 to 17 was offensive name-calling, followed by false rumours and receiving unwarranted explicit images.

Always watch for warning signs in your child's behaviour. These signs can include loss of confidence, withdrawal from social activities, shifts in eating or sleeping patterns, and reluctance to attend school.

Should you have any concerns, have an open discussion to understand what he/she may be going through and provide your support.

Read more: How to stay protected from online scams

Tip 2: Set guidelines for their online interactions

Similar to how you monitor your teen’s real life social interactions by placing rules and restrictions on where they go, who they meet, and what they do, it's important to establish similar guidelines for their online activities.

Start by keeping track of your child’s online activities and social interactions. This includes paying attention to unusual key word searches, websites visited and noting the timing your kid is online (especially late at night) can provide insights into potential issues like cyberbullying.

Always maintain a calm and supportive approach to encourage open communication and prompt interaction as this will make it easier for them to share their thoughts and feelings, and whatever they may be going through.

Develop and encourage a deeper connection with your teen by talking to them regularly and explaining the reasons behind certain decisions. This helps them understand your intent, making it easier for them to accept your decisions.

Tip 3: Educate them on cyber safety tips

Educating teens about the risks that they may face on the internet can go a long way in ensuring their cyber safety.

Teach them how to be responsible internet users, what they should do if they are being cyberbullied or if identity theft occurs and provide real-world examples so that they can be more vigilant in their cyber interactions.

Always ensure that they feel comfortable approaching you for help – most teens hesitate to tell their parents about cyber harassment fearing that their parents would limit their access to their mobile devices and other gadgets.

Tip 4: Don’t be afraid to report cyber bullying in Singapore

There are many resources available to support victims of cybercrime, including trauma counselling, IT support, and legal advice.

Governments worldwide are increasingly recognising the seriousness of cyberbullying and related crimes. If you are being cyberbullied, it is important to know that law enforcement agencies, particularly in Singapore, are highly efficient and can provide assistance and guidance.

Additionally, specialised counselling programs are also available to help victims recover from the mental trauma associated with cyber-related crimes.

To sum up, there are many ways to seek advice and assistance when things get out of hand or cannot be resolved. It is always advisable to address issues early to prevent it from escalating.

Remind your loved ones not to hesitate to reach out to trusted individuals, and remember that help is always available. The online world can be a great source of fun and knowledge as long as we put proper cybersecurity measures in place.

 

Disclaimers and Important Notice
This article is meant for information only and should not be relied upon as financial advice. Before making any decision to buy, sell or hold any investment or insurance product, you should seek advice from a financial adviser regarding its suitability.