Online bullying (sometimes called cyberbullying) is never okay. Find out what to do if it happens to you, or if you see it happening to someone else.
Last Updated30/07/2024
Online bullying (also referred to as cyber bullying) is when individuals use the internet to harass, intimidate, or target others.
It can take place over various platforms such as social media, messaging apps, gaming platforms and through email or texts.
Cyberbullying is the term that tends to be used when the bullying is taking place between young people, teenagers or within a school environment. Online bullying tends to refer to adults.
Online bullying can involve:
If you're experiencing online abuse, fallen victim to a scam, or need some advice about another online issue, Netsafe is here to support you.
Our helpline is free, confidential and non-judgmental - providing expert advice and assistance seven days a week.
(https://report.netsafe.org.nz/hc/en-au/requests/new)Email [email protected] 
(mailto:[email protected])Text 'Netsafe' to 4282 
(sms:4282?body=Netsafe)Call 0508 638 723 8am-8pm weekdays, 9am-5pm weekends 
(tel:0508638723)New Zealanders overseas can call +64 9 666 0840 (tel:+6496660840)Here's what you can do if it happens to you:
There are a few things you can do which might help others to deal with online bullying.
If you realise your actions have harmed someone online:
Netsafe can offer help, advice and support for all types of online incidents.
It's helpful if you have examples so we encourage you to take screenshots of messages.
Contact Netsafe for non-judgemental advice on what steps you can take.
Yes, we can provide you with advice and talk you through the options available for you and the person being bullied.
Yes, Netsafe can help.
Contact us:
Netsafe does not have investigative powers so we can’t trace who is behind fake accounts, however there are options available, and we can advise you on what you can do.
Yes, anyone in New Zealand can contact us for help.
Netsafe can provide you with advice about the options available to you.
You can contact Netsafe seven days a week for free, confidential and non-judgmental advice about an online issue impacting you or someone you know.
(https://report.netsafe.org.nz/hc/en-au/requests/new)Email [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])Text 'Netsafe' to 4282 (sms:4282?body=Netsafe)Call 0508 638 723 8am-8pm weekdays, 9am-5pm weekends (tel:0508638723)New Zealanders overseas can call +64 9 666 0840 (tel:+6496660840)Experiencing online bullying can be distressing. For further support you can contact these free, confidential services:
In an updated report, Netsafe commissioned Sense Partners to examine the societal cost of cyberbullying in New Zealand.
The report highlights the economic impacts of online harm on individuals, employers, and broader institutional systems, beyond the emotional and psychological toll on victims.
By spotlighting the hidden costs of online harm, the report aims to raise awareness, which is a critical first step towards change.
Check out our online learning module about online bullying.
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