The Internet is awesome, no doubt about it.  You can talk to your friends, look up all sorts of cool stuff, shop, play games…there’s no end to what you can do!  Unfortunately, the Internet also holds some dangers to it: internet stalkers being one and cyber bullies being another.

Cyber bullies usually say things online they would never say in person because they can hide behind the screen names and feel as though they won't get caught.  They send emails, instant messages, and text messages saying mean and nasty things to some unsuspecting person. 

If you are being harassed online:
1. Tell an adult you trust (a parent, teacher, guidance counselor, older sibling, etc.) right away
2. Leave the chat room, instant message, discussion board, etc. immediately but save the comments in case you need to refer to them later
3. Block the bullies and never respond to their insults and threatening remarks (that's what they want after all)
4. If the instant message has physical threats in it, report it to the police.  There are laws against this.

No one ever has the right to bully you or make you feel frightened, humiliated, or terrorized.  Some people may think they have the right, let them know they're wrong!  It's not always easy to stop a cyber-bully, but it’s the smart and safe thing to do.