As a university, York University is dedicated to promoting a secure and inclusive online environment. It is vital that students, faculty, and staff are aware of the dangers of cyber threats and provided with tactics for dealing with them.
Understanding Cyberbullying and Online Harassment
The deliberate and persistent harm inflicted through the use of computers, smartphones, and other electronic devices is known as cyberbullying. Early recognition of these behaviors is essential in order to stop them from becoming severe. Be alert for signs of online harassment, which can take various forms such as:
- Trolling: This is the premeditated following and provoking of others on the internet, frequently with offensive content. Though most trolling is simply bothersome, on rare occasions, trolling can intensify into threats or even take on a larger scale when multiple people are harassing the target or the target's organization.
- Doxing: This is the act of disclosing confidential personal data online that is not usually publicly available. This information may include sharing a person's private email, personal phone number, home address, and other details on multiple sites in order to intimidate the individual while encouraging further harassment.
Protecting Your Online Profile:
Your digital presence functions as your primary line of protection against cyberbullying. Passwords should be updated on a regular basis, two-factor authentication enabled, and social media privacy settings reviewed. Avoid disclosing significant personal data, and be cautious when accepting friend or connection requests from unknown users. Taking proactive measures towards safeguarding your online persona may discourage future harassers and protect your digital safety.
Visit our Online Safety Plan for Dealing with Harassment and Abuse via Email and Social Media
Privacy policies and security settings change frequently and are unique to each platform. For the most recent privacy policies and security settings, please visit the specific social media site to learn more.
Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | LinkedIn | Snapchat | Discord | Reddit | WhatsApp | WeChat
Dealing with External Harassment:
Cyberbullying might not always originate from within the university community. In the event of external harassment, it is critical to involve law enforcement and other relevant authorities. Keep detailed records of the incidents, preserve evidence, and report the harassment to local authorities. Work with the university's security team to ensure a coordinated response that prioritizes the safety of all involved parties.
Reporting Online Harassment and Cyberbullying Incidents:
It is critical to report cyberbullying incidents as soon as possible to ensure that they are resolved quickly. In addition to reporting, preserve evidence by taking screenshots or documenting relevant information. Immediate and comprehensive reporting not only helps to resolve individual cases, but also contributes to a secure online environment for everyone.
Contact York Security Services
For additional resources and support, visit:
Students:
Office of Student Community Relations (OSCR)
Centre for Sexual Violence Response, Support & Education
Faculty & Staff:
Centre for Human Rights, Equity and Inclusion Online Harassment Guide for Faculty and Staff
Employee Wellbeing Office (Human Resources)
