Take Action: What To Do If You Are Being Harrassed, Stalked, Or Bullied Online

—Spot the Signs: Persistent unwanted messages, impersonation, or threats are warning signs. Teens need education on recognizing fake profiles and phishing scams.

—Lock Down Accounts: Strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and tight privacy settings are musts. Sharing sensitive photos, even privately, carries risks.

—Save and Report: Victims should keep screenshots, timestamps, and URLs as evidence and report to platforms, police, or the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). Resources like the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) provide support.

—Strengthen Systems: Schools need clear protocols for handling cyberstalking, and lawmakers must update laws to address new threats like AI deepfakes or tracking apps.

—Support Recovery: Therapy and peer support are vital for victims to heal from the psychological toll of public shaming and fear.