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I was on a random video chat app when a whole group of people started targeting me, they were racist, called me names, and told me to leave my country. It felt like a mob attack, not just one person being mean. No one stopped them, and I don’t think the app cares. I’m really upset and just need someone to hear me.
Hi there,
Being targeted by a group of people because of your race can be a hate crime and is a form of online bullying. It can feel overwhelming and isolating when lots of people join in, but it’s important to remember that their behaviour is wrong and is their fault. What happened says nothing about you.
All apps should have moderation and reporting functions to prevent things like this happening. Sometimes an app might not respond well or straight away, it’s always good to think about only using platforms you feel safe on. We’ve got lots of tips to help you feel safer online. If you feel able to, it can help to take back some control by reporting the users and comments to the app. This helps to create a record of what happened.
If an app doesn’t feel safe, it’s important to look after yourself. Talking to a trusted adult about what happened can help you process the shock of the attack and think about what to do next. It can also help to think about ways to feel good online, and where you’d feel most comfortable spending your time.
It’s important to look after your emotional health too when going through something upsetting. Our Calm Zone has lots of ideas on things to try if you’re feeling upset. If you want to talk more about how this made you feel or need more support, you can always speak to a Childline counsellor.
Take care,
Sam
You can talk privately to a counsellor online or call 0800 1111 for free.
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