If you’ve ever received any kind of unwanted text message that’s threatening or humiliating, then you’ve been the victim of textual harassment. More and more teens are reporting that they’ve been the victims of this form of cyberbullying.

Texts can be pretty anonymous, and bullies are hiding behind texts to harass their victims. Don’t let cyberbullies get the best of you! Here are some tips to follow if you become the victim of textual harassment:

• Don’t reply! Sure, you might be mad and want to text back. But replying lets the bully know that he or she got under your skin. If a bully can’t get a response from you, chances are they’ll give up.
• Save the text. If you decide to make a report to the police, you’ll need evidence.
• Tell a trusted adult about the text, and let him or her know if the texts keep coming.
• Talk to your principal, if you think the texts are coming from a classmate. Most schools have a policy on bullying.
• Report it to the police, if you’re threatened with harm. Bring your phone with the saved texts and an itemized phone bill for evidence.

Textual harassment isn’t the only form of cyberbullying. Check out this story about a cruel MySpace hoax that ended tragically.