Illegal or just unethical

(StopBullying.gov, n.d.)

• Cyberbullying by its very nature is unethical.

• There isn’t a specific law against cyberbullying, however, there are laws against the following related offences;

• Stalking
• Bullying
• Assaults/threats
• Harassment
• Vilification (ThinkUKnow, n.d.)

• Vilification can be defined as "knowingly or recklessly incite hatred, serious contempt or severe ridicule on the grounds of race, religion, sexuality or gender identity in a way that includes threatening or inciting physical harm. This may be done via internet or email.” (ThinkUKnow, n.d.)

• For information on cyberbullying related laws relevant by State refer to the ThinkUKnow hyperlink.

• The Australian Cybercrime Online Reporting Network (ACORN, n.d.) states that, “under the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth) it is an offence to use the internet, social media or a telephone to menace, harass or cause offence. The maximum penalty for this offence is three years imprisonment or a fine of more than $30,000.” (ACORN, n.d.)

• Australian children are protected by the Federal Government via the Office of the Children’s eSafety Commissioner.  Children are able to submit a complaint if cyberbullying is experienced.  

• Follow the ACORN link to learn more about cyber-crime and/or to “Report a cybercrime”.