Unfortunately, bullying has become commonplace for most children – and even some adults. But if that isn’t bad enough, the advent of new technology and an ever-changing online landscape, cyberbullying has also continued to see an increase.
What is Cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying is any bullying that occurs over digital devices such as tablets, cell phones, and computers. It includes everything from posting and sending, to sharing mean, false, or harmful content about someone else. The sharing of personal or private information about someone else that causes them embarrassment or humiliation can also constitute cyberbullying.
Essentially, in Texas cyberbullying is defined as anyone using any electronic device to engage in bullying or intimidation. In Texas, some of these acts apply only to students, while others apply to everyone within the state.
Cyberbullying can occur in many places, such as over:
- Text Messages
- Instant Messages
- Social Media
With school now back in session, the safety of our children is still at the forefront of our minds. Though we strive to protect our children in every way possible, it can be very difficult to protect our kids from cyberbullying. Should you discover that your child’s behavior or attitude seems to have changed in a negative manner, this could be an indication that they are experiencing cyberbullying.
Talk to Your Kids
It may not be the most enjoyable conversation, but it is of great importance that you discuss the issue of cyberbullying with your children and to check in with them on a somewhat regular basis. They should know and feel that they can come to you should they find anything upsetting or should anything dangerous or inappropriate transpire. Always enforce online safety rules with your kids and inform them that they should never respond to cyberbullying, but instead preserve the messages for an adult to see. It is also very important that you contact law enforcement should the cyberbullying increase or should there be any threats of physical violence.
Penalties
Those who commit cyberbullying can be found guilty of other criminal charges:
- Harassment – This occurs when someone:
- Intentionally communicates an obscene proposal
- Threatens
- Coveys a false report, or
- Makes a call or sends a message designed to harass, annoy, alarm, embarrass, or torment.
Harassment is either a Class A or B misdemeanor dependent upon the circumstances.
- Online Impersonation – This occurs when someone:
- Acts with the intent to harm, defraud, or intimidate and:
- Creates a page on a website, or
- Sends messages in the guise of someone else without that person’s permission
- Acts with the intent to harm, defraud, or intimidate and:
Online impersonation is either a felony or a misdemeanor depending upon the circumstances.
- Disruptive Activities – This occurs when someone uses force or threats of force to:
- Obstruct people from moving through a school
- Prevent or attempt to prevent others from participating in school assemblies, or
- Obstruct or restrain a person from entering or leaving a school.
Disruptive activities are considered to be a Class B misdemeanor.
Ceja Law Firm PLLC Helps Those in Texas Who Have Been Charged with Cyberbullying
If you or a loved one has been accused of cyberbullying, it is a serious offense not to be taken lightly. The experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys at Ceja Law Firm PLLC can help! To learn more about cyberbullying or to schedule a consultation, contact us today!
