What Can You Do When Cyberbullying Goes Too Far?

A hurtful comment, a threatening message, or someone creating a fake profile in your name may seem like isolated online incidents at first. But when this behaviour becomes persistent, it can have serious consequences, affecting your wellbeing, reputation and sense of security.

At Auto&General, we understand that legal challenges don't only happen offline. As more of our lives move online, many people are finding themselves exposed to cyberbullying, online harassment and other digital risks that may require legal guidance and support.

In some cases, cyberbullying can escalate beyond unpleasant online interactions and become a legal matter. This may include harassment, defamation, identity theft and threatening communication.  Knowing your rights and understanding the options available to you can help you respond with confidence when online behaviour crosses the line.

What Can You Do If You're Being Cyberbullied?

If you're experiencing cyberbullying, taking the right steps early can help protect you and strengthen your position should legal assistance become necessary.

Consider the following:

• Keep records and screenshots of any abusive or threatening content.
• Avoid engaging with the individual responsible.
• Report harmful behaviour to the relevant platform or service provider.
• Protect your personal information and online accounts.
• Seek professional legal guidance if the behaviour becomes threatening, defamatory or invasive.

Having access to trusted legal advice can help you better understand your rights and what action may be available to you.

How Auto and General Legal Cover Helps You

When you're dealing with a cyber-related issue, knowing where to turn for support can make all the difference.

Auto&General Legal Cover provides members with access to a range of legal support services designed to help when unexpected legal matters arise. Depending on the qualifying plan selected, these benefits may include:

• Unlimited telephonic legal advice
• Mediation services
• Legal assistance and representation on qualifying matters
• Litigation support
• Cyber Cover benefits

For members with access to the Litigation benefit, support is available for qualifying cyberbullying-related matters, helping you navigate challenging situations with greater confidence.

Choosing The Right Level Of Protection

If protection against online risks is important to you, it's worth understanding which Auto&General Legal Cover plan best suits your needs.

The Elite Plan includes cover for cyberbullying-related matters, while the Elite Plus Plan offers broader cyber-related protection, including benefits relating to cyberbullying, cyberattacks, cyber liability and cyber theft.

Get The Support You Need

Auto and General Legal Cover gives you access to professional legal support when you need it most, helping you understand your rights and explore the options available to you.

To learn more about Auto and General Legal Cover and the Cyber Cover benefits available on qualifying plans, visit the Auto&General website or call 0860 104 789.

Because when cyberbullying goes too far, having the right support can make all the difference.

FAQs

Can people get in trouble for cyberbullying?

Yes, people can get in trouble for cyberbullying in South Africa. Cyberbullying can lead to criminal charges, civil lawsuits, fines, and even imprisonment under laws such as the Cybercrimes Act 19 of 2020 and  the Protection from Harassment Act 17 of 2011.

What evidence do you need for bullying?

Evidence may include emails, messages, screenshots, social media posts, or any other records that show the behaviour. Statements from witnesses and information about how the behaviour has affected you can also help support an investigation. Keeping copies of relevant evidence can assist in understanding and addressing the concern appropriately.

What are 5 examples of cyberbullying?

Cyberbullying can take many forms, including harassment, social exclusion, cyberstalking, sharing someone's private information without consent (doxxing), and tricking someone into revealing personal information that is then shared with others.

What law protects victims of cyberbullying in South Africa?

Victims of cyberbullying in South Africa are protected by several laws, including the Protection from Harassment Act, Cybercrimes Act, and POPIA, depending on the nature of the bullying and harm caused.

Can someone be sued for cyber bullying?

Yes, If you have been affected by cyberbullying, you may be able to take legal action in South Africa. Depending on the situation, you can apply for a protection order, seek compensation for harm caused, or pursue other legal remedies to help stop the behaviour.