I'm Worried About Cyberbullying. How Can I Prevent It?

According to Japan's Ministry of Education (2022 survey), confirmed cases of cyberbullying reached approximately 21,000 — a record high. As smartphone ownership among children increases, even elementary school students are becoming involved in cyberbullying incidents.

Preventing your child from becoming a victim: ① Do not share personal information (school name, address, face photos) on social media. ② Conversations in group chats can be screenshotted. ③ Make a promise together: "If you receive a message that makes you uncomfortable, show it to me right away."

Preventing your child from becoming a perpetrator: ① Help them understand that there is a real person on the other side of the screen. ② Ask them, "Before you send that message, could you say it to that person's face?" ③ Teach them not to join in when a group chat piles on a single person.

If it does happen: ① Save evidence (screenshots). ② Block and report the person. ③ Talk to the school and parents. ④ For serious cases, contact police counseling (#9110 in Japan) or the Ministry of Justice human rights hotline (0120-007-110).

The single most powerful preparation is saying: "No matter what happens, I promise I won't get angry — please tell me." That sentence alone makes it easier for your child to come to you.