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PROJECT: ONLINE BULLIES AND THE LAW

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It is essential to address online bullying promptly to prevent harm to both the bully and their targets.


Many parents are faced with the dilemma of discovering that their child is the one doing the bullying 

and causing harm to others online.

 

Numerous parents have contacted Mr Bolhuis when they have been unable to change the behaviour of their child.

Mr Bolhuis has previously addressed these cases successfully.

 

RED FLAGS:


  • Behavioural Changes:

    • If your child becomes secretive about their online activities,

    • Spends excessive time online,

    • Or shows aggression after using devices,

    • These could be signs of bullying behaviour.

  • Multiple Accounts or Secrecy:

    • Maintaining multiple social media accounts or using anonymous profiles to harass others indicates potential bullying behaviour.

  • Receiving Complaints:

    • If you receive complaints from other parents, teachers, or peers about your child's online behaviour, take them seriously.

  • Lack of Empathy:

    • A lack of empathy, or enjoyment in causing distress to others - may indicate bullying tendencies.

  • Changes in Social Interactions:

    • Your child may withdraw from family or friends, exhibit mood swings, or display signs of guilt or anxiety.

 

MITIGATION TACTICS:


  • Open Communication:

    • Approach your child calmly and encourage open dialogue without judgment.

    • Let them know you are concerned about their behaviour.

    • Explain to them what the problem is with their behaviour.

  • Set Clear Expectations:

    • Establish rules about online behaviour and consequences for bullying.

    • Explain the impact of their actions on others.

  • Monitor and Limit Online Activity:

    • Keep an eye on your child's online interactions and consider setting parental controls or limits on screen time.

  • Teach Empathy and Respect:

    • Help your child to understand the feelings of others, and promote respectful behaviour both online and offline.

  • Seek Professional Help if Needed:

    • If the behaviour persists or escalates, consider seeking guidance from a school counsellor, therapist, or psychologist specialising in children's behaviour.

 

THE LAW:


In South Africa, there are legal measures and consequences for online bullying, especially if it involves harassment, intimidation, or threats.

The laws applicable to online bullying can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the age of the child involved.


  • Protection from Harassment Act (Act No. 17 of 2011):

    • This law protects individuals from harassment, including online harassment.

    • It allows for protection orders to be issued against perpetrators of harassment, which can include online bullying.

  • Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act (Act No. 32 of 2007):

    • This act includes provisions against the distribution of intimate images without consent (revenge porn), which is a form of online bullying.

  • Children's Act (Act No. 38 of 2005):

    • This act focuses on the protection and well-being of children and includes provisions that can be applied if a child is found to be engaging in harmful behaviour, such as online bullying.

  • Film and Publications Act (Act No. 65 of 1996):

    • This act regulates the distribution of certain publications, films, and games, including those that may contain harmful or harassing content online.

  • School Policies and Codes of Conduct:

    • Many schools have policies and codes of conduct that address bullying, including cyberbullying.

    • Students who engage in online bullying may face disciplinary actions within the school system.

 

In cases where online bullying involves criminal behaviour or serious harm, law enforcement authorities should become involved. Depending on the severity of the offence, and the age of those concerned - consequences range

from warnings and counselling to fines and even imprisonment for more serious crimes.

 

Parents, educators, and authorities need to work together to address online bullying effectively,

providing support and education to both the victims and perpetrators to prevent future incidents.

 

Specialised Security Services invites the public to the Mike Bolhuis Daily Projects WhatsApp Group.

This group is important in delivering insights into the latest crime trends, awareness, warnings and the exposure of criminals.


HOW TO JOIN THE MIKE BOLHUIS DAILY PROJECTS WHATSAPP GROUP:

 
CONTACT MR MIKE BOLHUIS FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY MEASURES, PROTECTION, OR AN INVESTIGATION IF NEEDED.

ALL INFORMATION RECEIVED WILL BE TREATED IN THE STRICTEST CONFIDENTIALITY AND EVERY IDENTITY WILL BE PROTECTED.
 

Regards,

Mike Bolhuis

Specialist Investigators into

Serious Violent, Serious Economic Crimes & Serious Cybercrimes

PSIRA Reg. 1590364/421949

Mobile: +27 82 447 6116

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EXTREMELY IMPORTANT: All potential clients need to be aware that owing to the nature of our work as specialist investigators there are people who have been caught on the wrong side of the law - who are trying to discredit me - Mike Bolhuis and my organisation Specialised Security Services - to get themselves off the hook. This retaliation happens on social media and creates doubt about our integrity and ability. Doubt created on social media platforms is both unwarranted and untrue. We strongly recommend that you make up your minds concerning me and our organisation only after considering all the factual information - to the exclusion of hearsay and assumptions. Furthermore, you are welcome to address your concerns directly with me should you still be unsatisfied with your conclusions. While the internet provides a lot of valuable information, it is also a platform that distributes a lot of false information. The distribution of false information, fake news, slander and hate speech constitutes a crime that can be prosecuted by law. Your own research discretion and discernment are imperative when choosing what and what not to believe.


STANDARD RULES APPLY: Upon appointment, we require a formal mandate with detailed instructions. Please take note that should you not make use of our services – you may not under any circumstance use my name or the name of my organisation as a means to achieve whatever end.


POPI ACT 4 of 2013 South Africa: Mike Bolhuis' "Specialised Security Services" falls under Section 6 of the act. Read more here: https://mikebh.link/fntdpv

 
SSS TASK TEAM:
 
 

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Our mailing address is:

Mike Bolhuis Specialised Security Services

PO Box 15075 Lynn East

Pretoria, Gauteng 0039

South Africa

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