Let's have a look at the potential threats (young) people can come across in the digital space
Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying is a form of bullying using electronic means. It has become increasingly common, especially among teenagers, as the digital sphere expanded and technology has advanced. Harmful bullying behaviour can include posting rumours, threats, sexual remarks, a victims' personal information, or hate speech. Victims of cyberbullying may experience lower self-esteem, increased suicidal ideation, and a variety of negative emotional responses including being scared, frustrated, angry or depressed.
Sexual exploitation and grooming
Sexual exploitation is a form of abuse where offenders use their power (physical, financial or emotional) or a false identity to sexually or emotionally abuse a child or young person. It can occur in person or online. Often, young people are 'groomed' before they are sexually or emotionally abused. Grooming can include communicating and/or attempting to befriend or establish a relationship or other emotional connection, in order to prepare a young person for sexual activity at a later time.
Digital discrimination
Discrimination can happen as much online as it can happen in person. Social media often requires user to reveal their identities and by doing so, individuals can be more susceptible to experiencing discrimination of different forms.
Sharing intimate images without consent
Sometimes referred to as 'revenge porn', sharing an intimate image of someone without their concent
