Cyberbullying is one of the most worrying threats for young people, especially with the evolution of digital technologies. According to an investigation conducted by Bva Doxa in collaboration with Telefono Azzurro, the phenomenon is taking on new forms and requires a decided action by institutions, families and schools. On the occasion of the World Day against bullying and cyberbullyingexperts and institutional representatives discussed the necessary measures to counter this growing problem.
Deepfakes represent one of the most recent and insidious threats in the field of cyberbullying. Thanks to the use of artificial intelligence, these manipulated videos can spread false information or create compromising situations for victims. 40% of young people interviewed fear that a deepfake can destroy their reputation and compromise their social relationships. This type of content not only causes psychological damage to the victims, but can also have vast -flow legal and social repercussions.
Professor Ernesto Caffo, president of Telefono Azzurro, underlined the importance of targeted policies and interventions to counter bullying and cyberbullying. «The data of our investigation are an alarm bell. It is essential that the institutions are committed to more, but Even families and schools must become places of listening and support. Digital offers extraordinary opportunities, but it is essential to educate children and make them aware of the risks related to an irresponsible use of technologies “.
The data show a significant increase in cyberbullying compared to traditional forms of bullying. 31% of young people between 8 and 17 years old have undergone episodes of online bullyingwhile 18% experienced offline bullying. The girls are particularly exposed, especially through social media and messaging apps. Statistics show that cyberbullying documents are more frequent among teenagers and that they often escape adult control, making time identifying the problem.
Telefono Azzurro reiterates the need to create safe spaces in which young people can express their inconvenience. For 21 years, the organization has been managing the 114 childhood emergency service, active 24/7 and multilingual, to provide immediate support and assistance to those who suffer episodes of bullying or cyberbullying. In addition, a new telephone line has been started and a chat dedicated to the support of the victims of Deepfake and other skilled content. Contrasting cyberbullying requires a global approach that includes more effective educational strategies, prevention and regulations. Schools must invest in digital literacy programs to teach young people to recognize and defend themselves from online threats. At the same time, institutions must update the laws to punish those who use deepfakes and other digital techniques to damage people. Only through a joint action will it be possible to stop the spread of these dangers.
The commitment to combat cyberbullying must involve institutions, schools and families. Constant awareness and a determined action is needed to protect young people from new forms of digital threat. Only through a synergistic collaboration will it be possible to guarantee a safer and more inclusive digital environment for everyone.
