Cyberbullying persists despite high awareness, new study reveals
A new study has revealed that cyberbullying remains a widespread yet underaddressed issue. Research by ConsumerChoice, involving 780 participants, found that 93% of consumers recognise the problem—but many still struggle to respond effectively. Despite growing awareness, most believe society fails to take the matter seriously enough.
The survey showed that 54% of Portuguese consumers have witnessed cyberbullying, while 18% admitted to being victims themselves. Common forms include offensive comments, sharing private content without permission, threats, and public humiliation. These incidents often lead to severe real-world effects, such as anxiety, depression, social withdrawal, and declines in academic or professional performance.
Although 76% of users claim to be informed about online safety, many remain unsure of how to act when faced with cyberbullying. Only 38% have received formal training on the subject, and 61% feel there is a lack of clear guidance. Most respondents suggested that tackling the issue requires a joint effort from families, schools, tech companies, the government, and individual users. To protect themselves, people often block abusive accounts, restrict data access, report harmful content, or keep their profiles private. Yet, despite these measures, the problem persists, with many calling for stronger support systems and education.
The findings highlight a gap between awareness and action in addressing cyberbullying. While the majority recognise its dangers, few have received proper training or know how to handle incidents. The study underscores the need for clearer guidance and collective responsibility to reduce its impact on individuals and communities.
