Précis #4

Cyberbullying.

In the article about cyber security by Mindi McDowell, the growing problems of cyberbullying is discussed. She starts by defining cyberbullying; the fairly recent use of technology to harass somebody. Traditionally, bullies relied on physical force and intimidation. Prank phone calls and letts sent through the mail were and still are used. However, with amazing technologic advances comes some not-so-great technologic bullying. Cyberbullying can occur through email, instant messenger, web pages, and digital photos. Computers aren't the only vice either- cell phones and PDA's being used too, and while cyberbullying can affect anyone, teens and young adults seem to be the most common victims.

The next sections of the article talks about why cyberbullying has becme such a problem. The internet makes bullying more appealing to a "bully" because it is harder to trace, and there is no personal contact. What's even more terrible, is that due to the power and speed to the Web, malicious pictures can be posted and emails can be sent quickly to a mass audience, thus causing even more damage to the victim than traditional bullying. There is also a speculation that cyberbullying leads to violent behavior later i life, although this has not been researched enough to make any conclusions.

Mindi closes the article by offering some advice for protecting yourself and people you know.

1. BE CAREFUL WHERE YOU POST PERSONAL INFO!
this is a prevention tip. if you're careful to begin with,
you are much less likely to become a victim.

IF YOU DO BECOME A VICTIM..

2. Avoid responding in anger. Try ignoring or changing your email adress.
3. DOCUMENT. Keep track of the incidents, print them out if you can.
4. REPORT. To law officials, FBI, or if applicable school officials.