Bullying is one of the most difficult parts of growing up EVERYONE experiences. But no matter who targets you, don’t be a victim. Instead, stand up for yourself and step out of the situation. Use these tips from StopCyberBullying.org to help.

- Put everything behind password protected walls, where only friends can see you.
- Protect your password and make sure you really know who someone is before you allow them onto your buddy or friend list.
- Blur or morph your photos a bit so they can’t be abused by cyberbullies or predators.
- What you post online stays online – forever, so thinkb4uClick!
- Don't do or say anything online you wouldn't say offline.
- Remember that cute 14-year old boy or girl might not be cute and might not even be 14!
- Unless you’re prepared to attach your personal Internet profile page to your college/job/internship/scholarship or sports team application…don’t post it publicly.

If you are targeted by a cyberbully:

1) STOP! Don't do anything. Take 5 minutes to calm down.
2) BLOCK! Block the cyberbully or limit all communications to those on your buddy list.
3) TELL! Tell a trusted adult, you don't have to face this alone.

And if after watching Tyra’s episode on cyber bullying, you think you may have been a bully yourself? STOP, STOP and STOP! Megan is an extreme example of the harm bullying can cause. Even if the person you are targeting doesn’t harm herself, never forget there is another person on the other side of that computer screen who could be deeply hurt by your attacks. So always practice the Internet golden rule and treat others the way you want to be treated.

Report cyber bullying to www.wiredsafety.org and for more information on how to protect yourself and take a stand against cyber bullies, visit www.stopcyberbullying.com or
www.teenangels.org.