Online Harassment and Cyberbullying

Have you experienced online harassment?

Online harassment (sometimes experienced as 鈥渃yberbullying鈥) is a pattern of unwanted behaviour involving electronic technology that is known, or ought reasonably to be known, to be unwelcome.

Online harassment typically results in the creation of an intimidating, demeaning and/or hostile working, living or learning environment. It can involve communication tools such as:

  • Social networking sites (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, YouTube)
  • Online discussion forums
  • Anonymous posting forums
  • Websites and blogs
  • Text, photo, video, and audio messaging
  • Email
  • Online games

Online harassment uses language or images that humiliate, threaten, or violate the privacy of the targeted person(s). It may include, but is not limited to:

  • Aggressive personal attacks
  • Racist, sexist, homophobic put-downs or threats
  • Stalking
  • Rumour spreading
  • Sharing of personal information/photos without consent
  • Shaming/ostracism
  • Impersonation

Are you a student experiencing online harassment? Here are some steps you can take:

 IMPORTANT: DO NOT IGNORE THE HARASSING BEHAVIOUR AND DO NOT ERASE THE OFFENSIVE MESSAGES

What do I do if I am being harassed online?

  1. Immediately contact Campus Security and Emergency Services at (613) 533-6111.
  2. Save detailed records of each incident. Write down as much information as possible including date, time, location witnesses etc.
  3. Take screenshots that include date and time stamps.
  4. Minimize contact with the harasser. Take steps to block calls, and texts, adjust your privacy settings and avoid further communication.
  5. Speak to an on campus support who can offer further advice: Human Rights and Equity Office, IT Services, Ombudsperson, Campus Security or Student Wellness Services.
 Please note: there may be certain cases where the you should explore options in the Kingston community such as, Kingston Police who can be contacted at (613) 549-4660. 

For further information on reporting unwanted images on social media sites including - Facebook, Twitter and Instagram check out