By Dickson Bandera
At times, when we engage online, we may feel like we are alone, even though we’re speaking to someone on the other side of the screen. This sense of distance can sometimes lead us to say things we wouldn’t otherwise say in person.
But what we say online can have significant, lasting impacts on someone’s mental health, reputation, or safety. A simple comment, post, or share can affect someone in ways we might not immediately realize.
This highlights the importance of being mindful and considerate when we engage in the digital world.
Zimbabwe, like many other countries, faces challenges with cyberbullying, and there is still a lack of awareness surrounding the issue. Cyberbullying, which involves using digital platforms to harass, manipulate, or threaten others, is an escalating concern in Zimbabwe.
The Ministry of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, along with its affiliated departments, other government ministries, agencies, and various organizations in the cyber and data sectors, are actively working together to combat this issue.
In this article, we highlight 10 key things you should avoid doing on social media to prevent cyberbullying and contribute to a more respectful and positive online environment.
1. Don’t Share Hurtful or Offensive Content
Avoid posting anything that could hurt or humiliate others. This includes negative comments, photos, or videos that target a person’s appearance, race, religion, or background. In Zimbabwe, where respect, courtesy, and strong community ties are fundamental, such content can severely harm someone’s dignity and reputation.
2. Don’t Spread Rumors or False Information
Spreading false information or rumors about someone can escalate quickly and cause lasting damage. Copying, pasting and posting information which isn’t verified may end up spreading false information. The speed at which misinformation spreads on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp means that rumors can spiral out of control. Even if disproven, the harm to a person’s reputation may endure.
3. Don’t Engage in Name-Dropping or Insults
Name-calling and insulting others online is a form of cyberbullying. It’s easy to become embroiled in online arguments, particularly when opinions clash, but using derogatory language or insults only adds to the negativity. Maintaining civility online is crucial in a society like Zimbabwe where mutual respect forms the core of social interaction.
4. Don’t Post Private Information Without Consent
Posting someone’s private details—such as their phone number, home address, or personal conversations—without permission is a serious violation of privacy. This can result in identity theft, stalking, or harassment.
5. Don’t Engage in Cyberstalking
Cyberstalking involves repeatedly harassing someone online by monitoring their activities, sending unsolicited messages, or making them feel unsafe. This type of harassment can have devastating effects on the victim’s mental health, especially when they feel trapped or unable to escape the abuse.
6. Don’t Participate in Online Shaming or Public Humiliation
Publicly humiliating someone online is a form of bullying that can have long-lasting and often irreversible effects on their reputation and self-esteem. This type of online shaming can lead to ridicule, job loss, damaged relationships, and even social ostracism.
7. Don’t Post Content That Violates Copyright or Personal Property
Sharing someone else’s work, photos, or content without their permission not only disrespects the creator but can also result in legal repercussions. Respecting intellectual property is vital for fostering a fair and creative environment in both the physical and digital worlds.
8. Don’t Engage in Online Impersonation
Impersonating someone else online by creating fake profiles or pretending to be another person is a harmful act of cyberbullying. There is a tendency of impersonating successful people, the reasonwe see many fake accounts. These fake accounts can mislead others, damage reputations, and cause emotional distress to people who can engage with you.
9. Don’t Assume Someone’s Intentions Based on Their Online Persona
Online interactions can often be misunderstood, as they lack the context of face-to-face communication. What may seem offensive or aggressive may simply be a misunderstanding. It’s essential to approach online conversations with empathy and avoid jumping to conclusions. Always strive to understand the broader context before reacting.
10. Don’t Ignore the Impact of Your Words
The words you use online can have real-world consequences on someone’s mental and emotional health. Cyberbullying can contribute to severe issues like anxiety, depression, and even self-harm. Mental health awareness is still growing and it is crucial to be aware of how your online actions can affect others. Words and actions that may seem insignificant to you could be deeply harmful to someone else.
Conclusion
Let’s take responsibility for our behavior on social media and work toward fostering an online environment that encourages growth, inclusivity, and empathy. Everyone deserves to feel safe online, and by making thoughtful and responsible decisions about our digital interactions, we can help ensure that the online world remains a space for positive connections, personal growth, and mutual support.
