Responding to Online Abuse
Discover safe and effective strategies for dealing with online abuse when you encounter it.
Your Action Plan
Encountering abuse online can feel overwhelming, upsetting, and even frightening. It's important to remember that you have options and you are in control of your response. The goal is not to 'win' an argument, but to protect your mental and emotional wellbeing.
Following a clear set of steps can help you regain a sense of safety and control. These strategies are designed to de-escalate the situation, remove the abuser from your space, and ensure you have the support you need.
Key Strategies for Responding
Your Safety Comes First
These steps empower you to handle online negativity with confidence. Remember, your safety and mental health are the top priority. If you ever feel that you are in immediate physical danger or that the harassment is escalating to credible threats, it is crucial to contact a trusted adult or local law enforcement immediately.
Check Your Understanding
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You receive a series of harassing DMs from an account you don't know. According to the 4-step plan, what should be your immediate first action?