Cyberbullying has emerged as a widespread concern in the contemporary digital era, as harassment across diverse online platforms has become increasingly frequent. This type of bullying poses significant threats to the mental health and overall well-being of individuals. This underscores the importance of addressing this issue promptly and effectively.  What is Cyberbullying or Cyber Harassment? Cyberbullying, also known as cyber harassment, refers to the use of digital communication tools such as social media platforms, messaging apps, or online forums to intimidate, threaten, or harass individuals. This form of bullying encompasses various actions, including sending hurtful messages, spreading rumours, sharing embarrassing photos or videos without consent, and creating fake accounts to impersonate and harass someone.  Cyberbullying can occur anonymously, making it difficult to identify perpetrators. Also, it can have profound and lasting effects on the mental and emotional well-being of victims. Read more: '80% of cyberbullying victims are women' Types of Cyberbullying Harassment Harassment entails sending mean or threatening messages to someone online. It can be done through text messages, emails, social media posts, or online chat rooms. Exclusion  Exclusion involves intentionally leaving someone out of an online group or activity. For instance, a cyberbully might create a social media group and exclude their target. Outing and Doxxing  Doxxing includes sharing someone's private information online without their consent. For example, their home address, phone number, or embarrassing photos. Read more: Online bullying serious problem for 85% of Bangladesh youths: Survey Impersonation  Impersonation means creating a fake online profile and pretending to be someone else. The cyberbully can then use this fake profile to send mean messages or damage the victim's reputation. Trickery  Trickery mainly is deceiving someone into sharing personal information or embarrassing photos. For example, a cyberbully might create a fake survey to obtain personal details. Cyberstalking  This involves using technology to harass, intimidate, or threaten someone. This includes sending threatening messages or tracking the victim's online activity. Read more: Why are Suicide Rates Higher Among Men? Flaming  Flaming is described as posting angry or insulting messages on someone's social media page or online forum. Trolling  Trolling entails posting inflammatory or off-topic messages in an online forum to upset other users. Fraping  A frape happens when someone changes another person’s information on social media without them knowing or giving permission.  Read more: How to Protect Your Child from Sexual Abuse? Impacts of Cyber Harassment Emotional Distress  Cyberbullying can lead to profound emotional turmoil, including feelings of sadness, humiliation, and anger. Victims often experience heightened anxiety, constantly anticipating the next hurtful encounter, which undermines their sense of safety and well-being. Psychological Effects Research shows a significant correlation between cyberbullying and psychological challenges. Victims of cyberbullying frequently endure elevated levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation.  The relentless influx of derogatory messages and harassment often fosters sentiments of powerlessness and diminished self-worth. Also, the incessant negativity and pressure can prove overwhelming for those targeted. Read more: Students with Depression: Tips for Parents and Educators Social Isolation and Self-Esteem Damage  Cyberbullying can cause individuals to retreat from both online and offline social interactions, fearing additional harassment or scrutiny from their peers. This can foster feelings of isolation and solitude. Additionally, cyberbullying can profoundly impact an individual's self-esteem, as the recurrent attacks can engender feelings of worthlessness and insecurity.  Academic Consequences  The emotional distress caused by cyberbullying can impact victims' ability to concentrate on their studies and perform academically. Consequently, this can lead to a decline in grades and overall academic performance of the bullied person. Physical Health Issues  The prolonged stress and anxiety caused by cyberbullying can manifest in physical health problems such as headaches, insomnia, and gastrointestinal issues. Victims may also experience changes in appetite and energy levels. Read more: Digital Detox: Unplugging for Stress Relief and Mental Wellbeing Long-term Effects  The effects of cyberbullying can extend beyond the immediate harassment, affecting victims' long-term mental health and well-being. Some individuals may carry the trauma of cyberbullying into adulthood, impacting their relationships and overall quality of life. Bystander Effects  Observing cyberbullying can exacerbate mental health issues and foster an atmosphere of apprehension and vulnerability. It can instil fear of becoming a target, erode trust in online interactions and impact individuals' well-being.  What to do If You Experience Cyberbullying in Bangladesh Stay Calm It is essential to maintain composure and refrain from impulsive reactions to harassment. Responding to the bully may exacerbate the situation, as it gratifies their desire for a reaction. So, try to resist the temptation to engage with their messages or posts. Read more: Helicopter Parenting: Signs, Pros, Cons and How to Change Document Evidence It is important to document instances of cyberbullying, whether through screenshots of messages or posts or by noting down dates and times. This evidence will prove invaluable should you need to report the bullying at a later stage. Reach Out for Support It is highly recommended to discuss your experiences with a reliable friend, family member, another trusted adult, or mental health professional. They can provide valuable support and advice on navigating through the situation effectively. Block the Bully You may utilise privacy settings to block the person responsible for the harassment from reaching out to you further. Most social media platforms and messaging apps offer the option to block individuals. It can effectively prevent any further contact with them. Read more: Workplace stress affecting women in Bangladesh needs attention Report the Abuse to the Platform Utilising the available reporting tools to report instances of cyberbullying is crucial. Most social media platforms and online forums provide mechanisms for reporting abusive behaviour. Report the cyberbullying to the relevant website or platform, as they typically have anti-bullying policies and may take disciplinary action against the perpetrator, such as suspending their account. Seek Legal Advice In instances of severe cyberbullying, it is advisable to seek advice from a legal professional. The available remedies for cyberbullying may vary depending on individual circumstances. Victims are advised to seek legal counsel from a lawyer knowledgeable about cyberbullying and relevant laws for guidance. File a Report Victims of cyberbullying have the option to file a criminal complaint with the police under the Cyber Security Act of 2023. This act criminalises cyberbullying and imposes imprisonment and/or fines on offenders found guilty. Read more: Parliament passes Cyber Security Bill 2023 Cyber Crime Help Desk Bangladesh Police operates a Cyber Crime Help Desk for women (https://www.police.gov.bd/en/police_cyber_support_for_women) where victims can report incidents of cyberbullying and seek assistance. Evidence and proof (links, screenshots, etc) of cyberbullying can be forwarded via email to [email protected]  Also, victims can lodge complaints through multiple channels, including the dedicated hotlines at the Police Headquarters, the nearest police station or the official Facebook page of "Cyber Police Centre, CID, Bangladesh Police." Alternative Reporting Cybercrime victims also have the option to file complaints with the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) by calling their hotlines or emailing [email protected].  Read more: Sibling Bullying and Abuse: Reasons, Types, Signs and Prevention BTRC pledges to take action within 24 hours, with perpetrators brought to justice within 3 days of filing the complaint. The government has also introduced a cyber-crime helpline at +88-02-55007183 for victims to report their complaints. Consider Civil Suit Victims can pursue a civil suit for damages against the perpetrator, seeking compensation for emotional distress and reputation damage caused by cyberbullying. In cases of criminal intimidation, the perpetrator may be liable under the Penal Code 1860. Seek Restraining Orders Although the term "restraining order" is not specifically defined in Bangladesh’s law, victims can apply under relevant sections before a competent executive magistrate to prohibit a perpetrator from making unlawful contact. Read more: Should You See a Therapist? 8 Surefire Signs You Need Help Take Care of Yourself The emotional strain of cyberbullying can impact your mental well-being. You should prioritise self-care by reaching out to loved ones, participating in activities that bring you joy, and seeking professional assistance if necessary. Concentrate on self-nurturing activities to alleviate stress during this demanding period.  Verdict  Cyber harassment is a serious issue that can have profound consequences on individuals' lives. It is crucial to recognise the signs of cyberbullying, take proactive measures to protect oneself and seek support if victimised. By working together to combat cyberbullying, we can create safer and more inclusive online communities. Read more: Bullying in School: How to Protect Children and Deal with the Issue

Some 69.48% victims of sexual harassment through spreading exclusive private pictures and videos in internet is being perpetrated by their close ones. Of them, 33.77% cases have affairs between the victims and offenders while in 35.71% cases the offenders are familiar with the victims. This was revealed on Sunday in a research paper of Cyber Crime Awareness Foundation. Dhaka University chapter of the Foundation prepared the research paper titled ‘sexual harassment through misuse of technology in Bangladesh’. The report was prepared analysing some 154 crimes collected from national and regional newspapers during the period of January-December of the last year. The Foundation organised a webinar on the occasion of releasing the report. Also read: Moral, sex education needed to prevent sexual harassment: Speakers President of the Foundation presided over the webinar where chairman of psychology department of Jagannath University Prof Dr Noor Mohammad, chairman of Criminology Department of Dhaka UniversityKhandaker Farzana Rahman, computer network engineer Syed Zahid Hossain, senior assistant commissioner of of cyber security and crime unit of Dhaka Metropolitan Police Sayeed Nasirullah and lawyer of Supreme Court Tanzim Al Islam took part. Research cell convenor and East-West University senior Lecturer Monira Nazmi Jahan presented various parts of the research. The research finds that 92.20% of the victims are women, of them 56.49% are the age range of 18-30 years while 32.47% are under 18 years.

State Minister for ICT Junaid Ahmed Palak has said 'Cyber Security Help Desk' is being set up to provide technical and legal assistance for hacked FB  accounts.