There are many reasons why we go online, and having internet access easily available thanks to the presence of WiFi hotspots and 3G technology certainly helps plenty when we need to get in the know as soon as possible. Of course, the occasional drive to check on the latest Tweets and Facebook updates is also present. But how is life for people who do not enjoy being online as the rest of society?
This is usually the case for people who are victims of cyber stalking, cyber harassment and for children, cyber bullying. These acts, when done in real life, a looked down upon by society and are actually discouraged and even reprimanded within the offices or institutions where they may occur. In the internet however, the prevention of these cases is far more difficult and often times it is too late for the victims before their friends and family become aware of the problem.
In a recent article in the Guardian UK, the case of Phoebe Prince was discussed, showing how cruel society, even children can be and how far they will go. Of course, that case is a big issue and covers factors such as actual bullying, but it also raises the fact that the victim found no reprieve from the torments as she was even bullied online.
The internet is a far colder and cruel place than we think it is, even death has not stopped bullies from posting profane messages on the websites of memorial pages for the victims. This is why there are now rehabilitation centers for children so that they may cope with the harshness of society.
Still, this does not address how society can weed out and punish the offenders. And that is a serious issue that our society must face.
Get to know more about cyber bullying at the Guardian UK.
Tags: cyber bullying, cyberbullies, Facebook, stalking