SAPS shares safety tips to combat bullying and cyberbullying in schools

THE SOUTH African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape aims to raise awareness about bullying and cyberbullying in schools, with the 2025 academic year well under way.

Provincial police spokesperson Sergeant Timothy Sam explained that victims of bullying and cyberbullying can experience significant social isolation and feel unsafe. It can lead to emotional and physical harm, loss of self-esteem, feelings of shame and anxiety, concentration and learning difficulties, and, in some instances, even suicide.

He emphasised that young people must understand that, depending on the nature of the acts, bullying and cyberbullying are criminal offences. Perpetrators may be charged with crimen injuria, assault, and/or criminal defamation, which could result in a criminal record.

Sergeant Sam added that the SAPS urges adherence to the following safety guidelines for preventing bullying and cyberbullying in schools:

TIPS FOR CHILDREN AND TEENS

• Do not respond. If someone bullies you, remember that your reaction is often what the bully wants. It gives them power over you.

• Do not retaliate. Responding with similar threats reinforces the bully’s behaviour and can escalate the situation.

• Save the evidence. Online messages can often be captured, saved, and shown to someone who can help. Keep records, even of minor incidents, as cyberbullying can escalate.

• Block the bully. Use privacy settings or platform tools to block the person. If the bullying occurs during a chat, leave the conversation or chatroom.

• Report abuse. Inform social media administrators about any abusive comments or content.

• Reach out for help. Talk to a friend, parent, teacher, or a trusted adult who can provide support and guidance.

TIPS FOR PARENTS AND TEACHERS

Parents and teachers should:

• Recognize the warning signs of cyberbullying:

• A child becomes sad, angry, or distressed during or after using the internet or their cellphone.

• The child appears anxious when receiving texts, e-mails, or notifications from social media.

• They avoid discussions or become secretive about their online activities.

• They withdraw from family, friends, or activities they previously enjoyed.

• They refuse to go to school or specific classes or avoid group activities.

• They exhibit changes in mood, behaviour, sleep patterns, or appetite and show signs of depression or anxiety.

• Prevent cyberbullying before it starts by teaching children to:

• Block communication with cyberbullies.

• Avoid posting or sharing personal information online, such as their full name, home address, school name, parents’ details, phone numbers, or financial information.

• Never share internet passwords with anyone.

• Be mindful of what they share about their lives online.

• Avoid posting anything they wouldn’t want their classmates to see.

• Never send messages when they are angry or upset.

• Be as polite online as they would be in person.

Sergeant Sam concluded by saying that the SAPS will continue conducting awareness campaigns and community programmes in the Northern Cape to address bullying and cyberbullying and promote safer schools.