8.8 Online Safety

Publishing your work comes with risk. While the internet has opened access to endless content, this works both ways. There are strongly held viewpoints in society on some issues. Taking a different stance from others can lead to hurtful online comments. This can be an issue especially where social media is used to disseminate content and act as a platform for comment generally. Those who do not agree with your content may have direct access to you to make hurtful or offensive comments.

If this happens, consider these options:

• Acknowledge your feelings and take time before you react to comments. Keep in mind that those making comments want attention, and logic may not diffuse the situation.
• Keep a record. It might be challenging to determine whether you can take further action, and it might require reflection and investigation, but you need evidence if you decide to do this.
• Consider the settings on your social media accounts for reporting and blocking content:

• Keeping Instagram a safe and supportive place
• Bullying prevention – TikTok
• Snapchat safety center
• Managing harassment on Twitch
• Discord safety center
• Abuse resources – Facebook
• Community guidelines – YouTube

Reporting concerns to the eSafety Commissioner

Consider making a report to the eSafetyCommissioner via its set of forms on cyberbullying, adult cyber abuse, image-based abuse and illegal and restricted content. The person harassing you may face serious consequences.

Before you make a complaint, you need to:

• report the material to the social media service at least 48 hours before filling out the form
• have copies of the cyberbullying material ready to upload (screenshots or photos)
• gather as much information as possible about where the material is located.

It takes 15 to 20 minutes to complete one of the forms. You should hear from the eSafety Commissioner within two business days.

Logging off

You can always log off social media for a while. If that feels extreme, try:

• turning off push notifications
• logging off accounts that are being targeted by bullies
• deleting apps from your devices
• logging on only at certain times when you are in a ‘safe’ physical environment
• telling someone you trust, such as a friend, family member or counsellor.

References

eSafety Commissioner (n.d.) ‘Cyberbullying’, eSafety Commissioner website, accessed 25 May 2024.

ReachOut (n.d.) ‘5 strategies on how to prevent cyberbullying’, ReachOut Australia website, accessed 25 May 2024.