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Workplace online bullying

Workplace online bullying refers to harassment occurring in professional settings through digital communication channels like emails, social media, instant messaging, and other online platforms. Find out what it looks like, and what you can do if you're experiencing it in your workplace.

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Last Updated30/07/2024

What is workplace online bullying?

Workplace online bullying refers to harassment occurring in professional settings through digital communication channels like emails, social media, instant messaging, and other online platforms.

This form of bullying involves persistent actions designed to intimidate, belittle, or undermine a colleague. These actions can include sending abusive messages, spreading false information, or disclosing private details without consent.

The rise in remote working has contributed to an increase in ​​​online workplace ​bullying; it can occur anytime and anywhere, severely affecting an individual's emotional well-being and job performance.​​​

If you're experiencing online bullying, 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.

Report online Click to fill out an online reporting form: https://report.netsafe.org.nz/hc/en-au/requests/newEmail [email protected] Click to email a report to Netsafe: help@netsafe.org.nzText 'Netsafe' to 4282 Click to text a report to Netsafe on 4282Call 0508 638 723 8am-8pm weekdays, 9am-5pm weekends Click to phone the Netsafe helpline on 0508 638 723New Zealanders overseas can call +64 9 666 0840 Click to phone the Netsafe helpline on 0508 638 723

What can workplace online bullying look like?

Sending unwanted and/or harmful messages: This includes threats, insults, or other forms of harassment.

Spreading rumours or lies: Sharing false information about someone to damage their reputation.

Disclosing private details without permission: Sharing personal information without consent.

Sharing embarrassing pictures or videos: Posting or sharing images or videos intended to embarrass or shame someone.

Creating fake profiles: Using false identities to deceive, harass, or damage a person’s reputation.

What is the impact of workplace online bullying?

Online workplace bullying ​​​can detrimentally affect job satisfaction, productivity and overall job performance and can lead to increased absenteeism and staff turnover, quickly impacting the overall workplace culture.

The emotional toll on individuals can be profound, causing distress, anxiety, poor concentration, sleep problems, isolation, low self-esteem, and even thoughts of suicide.

man appearing to take a picture of the rear of a woman without her knowledge

What to do if you are being bullied online in the workplace

Here are some recommended actions you can take:

  • Don’t reply: Avoid responding to bullying messages or retaliating with mean comments, as engaging with the bully often escalates the situation.
  • Talk to someone you trust: Confide in a trusted friend, family member, or colleague for support and to help decide on next steps.
  • Collect evidence: Save screenshots or recordings of the bullying incidents. Document usernames, display names, URLs, and dates/times of the incidents. This evidence can be crucial if you decide to report the behaviour. You can find more information on how to record digital evidence here.
  • Review company policies: Familiarise yourself with your company’s policies on bullying and harassment to understand the steps you can take and the support available.
  • Report the behaviour to your workplace: Speak to your supervisor or HR department about the bullying.
  • Block harmful content: Most social media platforms allow you to report, block, or unfriend accounts. If harmful messages occur on work platforms, discuss the issue with your line manager or HR to find the best course of action.
  • Contact Netsafe for advice and support.

What can employers do to address online workplace bullying?

Implement a workplace bullying policy: Ensure to include a clear definition of workplace cyberbullying, how to report it, and to whom.

Develop a social media policy: Include guidelines on the appropriate use of social media.

Support anti-bullying initiatives: Promote and support campaigns like Pink Shirt Day within the workplace.

Take complaints seriously: Act swiftly to resolve any complaints.

Contact Netsafe

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.

Report online Click to fill out an online reporting form: https://report.netsafe.org.nz/hc/en-au/requests/newEmail [email protected] Click to email a report to Netsafe: help@netsafe.org.nzText 'Netsafe' to 4282 Click to text a report to Netsafe on 4282Call 0508 638 723 8am-8pm weekdays, 9am-5pm weekends Click to phone the Netsafe helpline on 0508 638 723New Zealanders overseas can call +64 9 666 0840 Click to phone the Netsafe helpline on 0508 638 723

If you've experienced online workplace bullying you can reach out for further emotional support from the these services:

Lifeline: 0800 543 354 Youthline: 0800 376 633 Tautoko suicide crisis helpline: 0508 828 865 Need to Talk: Text or call 1737

Online bullying guide

This plain language guide summarises some key advice about what to do if you're experiencing online bullying.

What is online abuse and harassment?

What is online abuse and what are the first steps you can take if you're experiencing any form of online harassment.

Report: cost of cyberbullying

Review our updated report on the societal costs of cyberbullying.