WHO: Over 30% of children worldwide have experienced online bullying
The World Health Organization says more than 30% of children have experienced cyberbullying. Here’s how parents can spot the warning signs and help keep their children safe online.
The internet has become an important part of children’s lives, helping them learn, socialise and stay entertained. However, it has also exposed many young people to the dangers of cyberbullying.
While celebrities have increasingly spoken out about their own experiences with online abuse, children remain among the most vulnerable victims.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 30% of children worldwide have experienced online bullying. This comes as global estimates show that one in three internet users is a child.
Did you know? More than 30% of children worldwide say they have experienced bullying online. Many cases go unreported.
— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) July 27, 2026
You can help reverse this trend:
- Recognize inappropriate behaviour
- Be a supportive bystander
- Know when and how to disengage
- Speak up and report abuse pic.twitter.com/RrFayIZmCf
What is cyber-bulling?
The WHO describes online bullying, or cyberbullying, as repetitive aggression, hostility or attempts to cause harm through digital communication. This can include:
- Threats and intimidation
- Sharing false or defamatory information
- Hate speech, including homophobic or sexist content
- Harassment through social media, messaging apps or online gaming platforms
In many cases, this behaviour is carried out by peers.
One of the biggest challenges is that many children never tell anyone they are being bullied online.
According to theWHO, some of the reasons children remain silent include:
- Fear of retaliation
- Shame and stigma
- Not knowing where to seek help
- Lack of supportive services
The organisation also highlights data from six countries across Africa, Asia and Latin America, which found that only between 23% and 54% of children exposed to violence of any kind disclose it to a friend or family member. Even fewer seek formal help or receive support.
How to identify if your child is a victim?
Cyberbullying can have serious emotional, physical and behavioural consequences.
Some children may experience:
- Emotional distress and anxiety
- Behavioural changes
- Sleeping disorders
- Headaches and stomach problems
- Increased aggression
- Declining academic performance
In severe cases, children may also engage in substance abuse or risky sexual behaviour as a way of coping with the trauma.
How to get help?
Parents and caregivers play a critical role in protecting children from online bullying. Here are some practical steps to take:
Create a safe space for conversation
Build a trusting relationship with your child so they feel comfortable talking about what they experience online. Let them know they won’t be blamed and that you will support them.
Report abusive content
Most social media platforms have tools that allow users to report bullying, harassment and harmful content. Reporting abusive behaviour can help prevent it from continuing.
Monitor your child’s online activity
Without invading their privacy, regularly check in on the platforms they use and discuss their online experiences. Some parents also choose to use parental controls or link family devices to help supervise younger children’s online activity.
Teach children about online safety
Talk to your children about respectful online behaviour and help them recognise warning signs such as threats, harassment or inappropriate messages. Encourage them to tell a trusted adult if something makes them uncomfortable.
Seek professional help if needed
If your child is showing signs of emotional distress or the bullying is severe, don’t hesitate to seek support from a psychologist or counsellor. Where appropriate, parents should also consider reporting serious threats or criminal behaviour to the relevant authorities.
By keeping communication open and acting early, parents can help ensure their children stay safe and supported online.
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