The Dos and Don'ts

Virtual Harassment is seen on many online platforms today. The onset of the Covid-19 pandemic has further increased the already rising numbers of cases of virtual bullying by 36%.

This issue is definitely not unsolvable and as a matter of fact, can be solved with a calm mind, acceptance and assistance.

➔ Why does virtual harassment take place? It can be due to stress caused by professional future, health, and during these dark times financial issues. can also be because of too

much content online that people are intimidated and hence cope by attempting to release their stress.

➔ Signs of Virtual Harassment

1. Blank calls and calls at inappropriate times.

2. Insulting comments on social media. 3. Uncomfortable questions or comments on any platform.

3.Explicit messages or jokes. (Sometimes messages need not be explicit but can still make you feel uncomfortable.)

➔ What should you do when you are virtually harassed?

1. If you are harassed in a group, talk to the group administrator.

2. Always re-check your posts before you upload them on social media and turn off location settings when taking pictures. 3. Contact your local police or law enforcement agency.

3. Save all the harassing content for evidence and do not edit them.

4. Be as cool as a cucumber. Do anything and everything to keep yourself calm.

➔ What you should you not do when you are being virtually harassed?

1. In these kinds of situations it is crucial to keep your calm. It's important to not be impulsive or to look down on yourself.

2. Picking yourself up and raising your voice against the insult is something you could do, granted you have the willpower to not let any further insults get to you.

3. Do not engage in any questions that make you feel uncomfortable. Do not reply to any emails or texts. Wait until you are back to your senses and do not rush into a confrontation.

➔ What will make people want to be kinder online?

The root cause of cyberbullying is the behaviour they show towards others and also which they encounter. If they adapt themselves to be nice

to each other, it will be much easier to tackle the issue. To prevent further harassment, we should start from scratch. To interpret this, we first spread awareness in the students, the future. Here are some ways to do this:

1. Short videos on how the people around can make a difference when someone is being cyberbullied.

2. The introduction of interactive games where they learn how to treat each other. 3. Starting up projects with each other can also do wonders.

➔ Your Mindset

Your mindset matters a lot as it determines the way you feel, the way you receive the hate and most importantly, the way out. It may seem like a complex maze, but remember that this will pass with time. Many people out there have overcome this and are leading a spirited life. Make sure you are surrounded by the right resources to find a solution. I wish you all the luck in the world to find your peace.