The Cyber Bully!

Internet Self Defence 101

The internet is a huge part of life for all of us now. Whether it’s Instagram, TikTok, Discord, or BeReal, staying connected is how we swap gossip, plan our weekends, and keep in touch. At Shin Gi Tai Martial Arts Academy, we see how much the online world shapes the lives of our students and their families.

While the internet is mostly a great tool, it has a dark side. When technology is used to harass, threaten, or bully others, there are serious legal consequences. In 2026, the law is much tougher than it used to be.

The Scale of the Problem (2026 Update)

Back in 2012, people were shocked by a few thousand reports of internet crime. Today, the numbers are much higher. Between April 2025 and March 2026, Childline delivered over 4,300 counselling sessions specifically about online harms, including cyberbullying and the misuse of AI-generated content like deepfakes.

It’s not just “trolling” anymore; it’s a serious issue that affects the mental health and safety of thousands of young people across the UK.

The Law and Cyberbullying

There are five main UK laws that deal with online bullying and harassment. If someone is targeted because of their race, religion, or gender, they can also be prosecuted under anti-discrimination and hate crime laws.

The Online Safety Act 2023

This is the most important update in recent years. It places a legal duty on tech companies (like Meta, TikTok, and Google) to protect children from “legal but harmful” content and to remove illegal content, such as online harassment and bullying, more quickly.

Protection from Harassment Act 1997

Originally for stalking, this now covers a wide range of harassment. If someone pursues a “course of conduct” (more than one incident) that causes alarm or distress, they are breaking the law. The police often use this Act to prosecute people for sending offensive emails or text messages.

Malicious Communications Act 1988

It is a criminal offence to send a message that is indecent, grossly offensive, or threatening. This includes social media posts and private messages.

Communications Act 2003

Section 127 makes it illegal to send “grossly offensive” or “menacing” messages over a public electronic network. It also covers sending false messages just to cause “annoyance, inconvenience, or needless anxiety.” Conviction can lead to fines or even prison time.

Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994

This covers intentional harassment. If someone uses threatening or abusive words or displays insulting writing (like a post or a meme) to cause someone distress, they can be charged.

Why This Matters to Us

At our Martial Arts Academy in Winchester, we teach respect and discipline—both on the mats and off them. Cyberbullying is often an extension of what’s happening in person, and it’s important to know that the law is there to protect you.

If you or your child are experiencing online harassment:

• Save the evidence: Take screenshots and keep a record.
• Report it: Use the reporting tools on the app and tell a trusted adult or the police.
• Talk about it: Don’t deal with it alone.

We’re here to help build the confidence our students need to stand up for themselves, whether they’re in the dojo or on their phones. At Winchester Martial Arts Academy, safety and respect always come first.