Between 2017 and 2021, there's been a noticeable increase in cyberbullying, and it's taking various forms. Bullying via text messaging and social media apps were already on the rise before the pandemic, but it seems to have accelerated, especially when it comes to text messaging apps. Bullying through other websites/apps, phone calls, or online gaming seems to have risen slightly during the pandemic. But what's interesting is that other data shows that face-to-face bullying hasn't decreased; it's actually increased since 2017 although in the last two years may be dropping back again.¹ So, it's not a case of hurtful behaviour simply moving from the 'real world' to the online realm. It's been growing in both environments. What's causing the recent changes we can't be sure and this may not be a reverse of the trend and simly a stabilisation of rates, we'll have to wait and see!

It’s worth remembering that young people today are the first generation to have a digital footprint from birth. More data about them is being collected than ever before and this could have long-term consequences. Their data profiles might influence their future experiences both on- and offline, thanks to advancements in analytical techniques and artificial intelligence. It's a digital landscape that's evolving, and we're only beginning to understand its impact.