The Anti-Troll Kit was created to help someone experiencing cyberbullying to put an end to their problematic situation. Its principle is simple: offer a multitude of solutions so that the person can find the one that suits them best.
The warning link
The Anti-Troll Kit warning link can be used to stop ongoing cyberbullying behavior. Its process is simple: a person contacts a student and crosses the line. The student must copy the link available on the website and paste it into the conversation.
When the warning appears on the screen, it is hoped that the perpetrator of cyberbullying will understand that they have gone too far and that continuing could lead to further measures with more severe consequences for them. Once the link has been sent, it is advised to take a screenshot and exit the conversation.
It is important to know that the police will not be aware that the warning has been sent and they will not monitor the communications of the perpetrator of cyberbullying.
If the situation continues, worsens, or the child is concerned for their safety, it is very important to contact a school counselor (e.g., a psychoeducator, a specialized education technician, or the person responsible for the anti-bullying and anti-violence plan), the school police officer, or the local police department for help.
Criminal offenses
In Canada, a person can be prosecuted under the Criminal Code from the age of 12. Several criminal offenses can be committed in connection with the misuse of social media, and it is important to know them because ignorance of the law is not a valid defense in court.
This section reveals the main offenses related to cyberbullying and allows a student to know if a police complaint is possible in their problematic situation.
Police report
When a perpetrator of cyberbullying crosses the line and commits a criminal offense against another child (e.g., threats, harassment), even if it happened outside school hours, the student can inform a school official to help stop the situation quickly. The school administration can also accompany the child if they want to report the events to the police. The child can also wait until they are at home to make the call.
Filing a police complaint allows the person and everyone involved in the situation to protect themselves. The police complaint is free, and the person will be accompanied throughout the process.
If the situation is urgent or the student is in danger, call 9-1-1 immediately. Otherwise, contact the police department serving the area where the person lives.
The police will first take the time to understand the situation, and if a criminal offense has been committed, a written account of the facts will be taken to serve as evidence in the upcoming judicial process. The police will also collect all relevant elements, such as photos, videos, and screenshots of the saved conversations.
Depending on the severity of the situation, the police will determine the actions to be taken to ensure the safety of the child experiencing cyberbullying. The next steps will be explained by the police, and a representative from the CAVAC (Centre d’Aide aux Victimes d’Actes Criminels) will accompany the child until the end of the procedures.
If a person wants more information, they can talk to a school counselor or the school police officer. This will help them better guide their decision and make the best choice for them.
Awareness approach
The awareness approach allows a high school student to get help from a school police officer to resolve their problem without having to officially file a complaint against the perpetrator of cyberbullying and appear in court.
For this solution to apply, the perpetrator of cyberbullying must have committed a criminal offense, be under 18 years old, and the police officer must be convinced that this method does not jeopardize the victim’s safety. The awareness approach takes place over three months in partnership with a school counselor (e.g., a psychoeducator, a specialized education technician, or the person responsible for the anti-bullying and anti-violence plan at your child’s school).
Here’s how it works:
- A cyberbullying situation is reported, and the anti-bullying and anti-violence plan is implemented by the school counselor. They request the collaboration of the school police officer.
- The school police officer meets with the child experiencing cyberbullying with the school counselor to understand the situation and propose solutions.
- If the Anti-Troll Toolkit’s awareness approach is chosen, the school police officer and the school counselor meet with the perpetrator of cyberbullying to raise awareness about their actions and explain the possible legal consequences. At the end of the meeting, the student commits to an honor contract to immediately stop their problematic behavior.
- One month later, the school police officer sends a letter to the perpetrator of cyberbullying to remind them of the information provided during their meeting.
- Three months after the start of the awareness approach, a follow-up is conducted with the student experiencing cyberbullying. If the situation is resolved, a positive letter will be sent to the perpetrator of cyberbullying, but if the behavior has continued, the school police officer will advise the student to file an official police complaint.
Throughout the process, the student can change their mind and file an official complaint against the perpetrator of cyberbullying.
Citizen mediation
Citizen mediation is a dialogue process between individuals, regardless of the topic, without going through the judicial system. It can be done in various ways: in person, through letters, phone calls, video conferences, etc.
Mediators from a citizen mediation organization (such as Équijustice) are there to listen without judgment. They will explore different possible options with the student based on their situation and expectations. They are there to accompany and equip the student in managing the situation. This service is free and confidential.
If the student wishes to engage in a dialogue with the perpetrator of cyberbullying, the mediators will guide them and ensure safe exchange spaces are set up. This type of approach is voluntary, and it is possible to withdraw from the process at any time.
Civil remedies
All citizens have the responsibility to follow social conduct rules to avoid causing harm to others. When this duty is breached, the person is responsible for the damage caused to another. They can be ordered to compensate for the damage caused. This is known as civil liability.
Defamation is an example of a civil remedy. It includes writings, words, gestures, or images that harm a person’s reputation and are done/shared maliciously or negligently. The statements can be direct or implied. Even if they are true, they can still constitute defamation.
If someone is a victim of defamation or has suffered damages (e.g., school absences, concentration problems, exclusion from a friend group) related to cyberbullying actions, they can pursue a civil liability action to stop the behavior and seek compensation. Note that a defamation action must be initiated within one year. The police will not be involved in this process since it is a civil matter.t et être dédommagé. Attention, un recours en contexte de diffamation doit être entrepris dans un délai d’un an. Les policiers ne seront pas impliqués dans ce processus puisqu’il s’agit d’un recours civil.
Help resources
The Anti-Troll Toolkit offers help to students experiencing cyberbullying.
Kids Help Phone provides immediate help for discussing any problem. The service is free, confidential, and available at all times.
Tel-jeunes is a free and confidential space where teenagers can chat, seek advice, or ask questions to other teens or professional counselors.
+Fort is a free app that helps a student find a solution to bullying and cyberbullying. It can be used as a journal and to evaluate proposed solutions.
