Harassment happens not only in the physical but also in the digital world. But in the digital world, it is severe as it leaves footprints online. Kids are innocent, and they can be exposed to such issues very quickly, but being parents, it is up to us what we do for them to keep them safe online. In this blog, we will learn about online Harassment, its effects, and how to keep our kids safe.
What is Online Harassment?
The use of the internet to purposefully shame, threaten, or harass another person is referred to as “online harassment.” An individual, a group of people, or even an organization may be the target of verbal, sexual, emotional, or social abuse. Threats, shame, or disgrace in an online environment could be part of this. It comes under the types of cyberbullying.
Your kids could also be the victims, and you might be unaware of it.
No Gender is Safe!
The bigger problem is the myth that only girls are not the victims. Boys can also be the victims. So your kids, neither daughter nor son, are safe in the digital world. That is why you are responsible for making the online environment safe for your young ones.
Forms of Online Harassment
Online Harassment is a broader term with some types you must know. So that you get an idea about whether your kids are a victim of it. Here are some forms
of online Harassment;
- Using Abusive Language
- Targeting Someone’s Race
- Sending Threatening Messages
- Cyber Blackmailing
- Threats
Shocking Statistics of Increasing Cases of Online Harassment
According to a Pew Research Center survey, 41% of Americans are the victims of online harassment. It’s a more significant value and alarming moment for us.
Signs Victims Possess
Online Harassment has significant impacts on victim’s life. They affect the mental health of the victim, and it turns out in the following signs;
- Lower Self-esteem
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Social Isolation
- Irritability
- Despondency
- Lack of Confidence
It doesn’t only affect mental health but also leads to physical health issues. Here are some problems that are caused by the poor mental health caused by the digital Harassment;
- Dizziness
- Sweating
- Nausea
- Back Pain
- Loss of Appetite
Ways to Protect Your Kids from Online Harassment
After having much information about online Harassment, it becomes necessary for parents to make sure their kids are safe online. As if once your kids become victims, it’s a long-term process to get rid of the effects it causes. For your help, here are some ways that are helpful to you in protecting your kids from online Harassment;
Educate Your Kids
Tell your kids about their online boundaries. Tell them about not sharing their personal information with strangers online with the consequences. So that they think twice before ding anything like that. But be polite in your tone, as kids don’t like restrictions.
Communicate with Them Openly
Communication is vital to knowing your kids’ problems. Be friendly in your behavior so they share their issues with you without hesitation. Listen to them attentively so that they get the feeling of not being alone in any case.
Use Spy Software
This is the safest option you can have. Just go with PegSpy, a spy software for parents to keep an eye on their kids. It gives you a complete record of their online activities covertly. All you have to do is buy a subscription, install the application, and log into your account from any device. Then, you can keep track of the following;
- GPS Location
- Messages
- Calls
- Calendar Event
- Gallery
Moreover, it also gives you remote controls over the mic and camera of the targeted device.
Conclusion
When kids grow, they love exploring new things and become digital enthusiasts. It becomes more risky for them to stay in the digital world.
But being parents you should think about saving your kids from these issues. With PegSpy, ensuring digital safety is not hard. Is it?
