SACRAMENTO --Detective Steve Emert with the Twin Rivers Police Department and the Sacramento Valley Hi Tech Crimes Task Force witnesses the torment and harm to targets of vicious cyberbullying.
He sites a recent example of Cheryl (whose last name is withheld to protect privacy) and her family under cyber attack by her son’s ex-girlfriend. Their safety was at risk because of the personal nature of the things the ex-girlfriend posted on Craig’s list about them including their home address and phone number with false adds telling folks they were giving away possessions for free, soliciting sex, selling specific possessions for a very cheap price, and renting a room, etc.
These malicious posts created a steady stream of unwelcome visits from strangers expecting to make good on the bogus offers.
“The parade of unwelcome strangers coming to our home and calling us all hours of the day and night was relentless, offensive and at times frightening,” Cheryl said, “Finally we posted a big sign declaring the Craig’s list ad a fake and we still worry about what will be missing or who will be waiting for us when we come home from work.”
It wasn’t until her son pointed to his ex-girlfriend on Facebook as the cyberbully and indicated that they have a detective working on the case that the cyber harassment subsided.
Cyberbullying is an act of cowardice. When the bully’s actions are called into the light, and made to account for their deeds they are less emboldened. According to Cheryl it is important to not lower yourself to the bully’s level and rise above it. “If you don’t give it play, you will not be giving them encouragement to keep it up.”
Parent Resources
- Banana Moments
- Smart Schools earn Smart Money
- Twin Rivers Police Department
- Sacramento Valley Hi Tech Crimes Task Force
- Related Story
- A Parent's Guide to Cyber Citizenship
(Ref: 496-e)
Comments