Though the internet provides multiple benefits, it also acts as a haven for bullies and trolls. Cyberbullying and online harassment pose a serious threat to businesses and individuals. Victims of social harassment should take appropriate steps to protect themselves from trolls and bullies.

If you are a target of online bullying, you can always seek cybersecurity consulting services. Social media harassment is a serious issue. It can pose a threat to your safety if not dealt with effectively. If you or anyone you know is a victim of social media harassment, you should take the steps listed below.

What Is Social Media Harassment?

Social media harassment or cyberbullying refers to the use of inflammatory, controversial, or enticing behavior practiced by netizens. Online abuse is another term used for social media harassment. It is worth mentioning that this form of harassment can happen to both individuals and businesses.

Cyberbullying is perhaps the most prevalent form of harassment practiced in today’s digital age. With the world largely connected via the internet, social media has become the go-to communication tool for users. Millions around the world communicate via social networks like WhatsApp, Viber, Facebook, and VK.

The widespread availability of social media platforms has led to an increase in online harassment. It has emboldened people to bully and troll others. Why? There’s a safe distance between harassers and their targets. Cyberbullies feel confident and safe on the internet. They believe that the screen they use can protect them from their targets and the authorities.

How Social Media Harassment Can Affect Businesses?

There’s no denying that businesses operate in a space that protects them from some forms of social media harassment. Unlike individual users, companies operate on different levels of social media platforms. However, social media harassment can create serious problems for businesses. A single bad review can affect the credibility of a business.

Just imagine, if hundreds of irate customers bombard your business with bad reviews, will your business survive this level of cyberbullying? It may or may not (depending on how you respond to the criticism and aggressive behavior of your customers). Moreover, shutting down the social media pages of one’s business may not be a wise move. Social media is crucial to the success of a business.

How Do I Protect Myself from Social Media Harassment?

Social media harassment is one of the worst forms of harassment. It can have multiple consequences. Cyberbullying can affect the mental health of victims. It can wipe out a business from the market. Here’s what you can do to protect yourself from social media harassment:

 Save Screenshots

It is not difficult to recall a conversation these days. Social media platforms like WhatsApp and Viber let users take screenshots of their conversations. If you feel someone is bullying you, do not forget to take screenshots of their messages. You can use screenshots as evidence when you present your case to the authorities.

Use Privacy Tools

The importance of privacy cannot be overstated in this digital age. Computer criminals are always on the lookout for their next target. Whether you are a small business owner or a large enterprise, you should never take your online privacy lightly. The good news is that social media platforms like Facebook allow users to protect their profiles from potential hackers and bullies. You can use privacy features to restrict your socials.

Protect Your Accounts

You should never adopt a lax attitude when it comes to online privacy and security. Cyberattacks do not discriminate between individuals and businesses. Hackers can steal your identity or blackmail you to give them money. Use precautionary steps like strong passwords and multi-factor authentication to protect your online accounts. It is advisable to use a combination of letters, numbers, and alphabets to create robust passwords for your socials and emails.

Try to Diffuse the Situation with a Positive Attitude

Don’t let your emotions get the worst out of you if you find yourself in the middle of an awkward situation. Computer criminals and cyberbullies tend to push their targets to the limit. They resort to blackmailing tactics to mentally drain their targets. Even in situations where silence no longer remains an option, try to keep calm. Even if you are a customer who had a bad experience, do not lash out at the service provider. Show empathy because that’s the better approach.

Report to the Authorities

Social media harassment poses a serious threat to individuals and businesses alike. You may risk losing your identity or your livelihood if you do not take timely action against cyberbullying. If you are a target of cyberbullying, report the instance to the authorities. It is important to address the issue in a delicate yet assertive manner.

Conclusion

Social media harassment can get out of hand. If you find yourself in a similar situation, report the situation to the police or any other anti-harassment help center. Remember to keep a clear head and save screenshots of your conversations.