Warning signs that a child is bullying others on the Internet.

Digital Secrecy and Avoidant Behavior

One of the clearest warning signs is a change in how the child uses technology, veering towards extreme secrecy.

If the child abruptly closes computer windows or the mobile app when an adult enters the room, or if they suddenly set passwords on devices that were previously freely accessible, it is an indicator that they are actively hiding their activity.

This avoidant behavior is often accompanied by defensiveness or anger if asked who they are talking to or what they are doing.

Also common is a disproportionate increase in time spent online, often at night.

The child may seem obsessed with their conversations or constantly checking notifications.

If the device is taken away as a consequence, their reaction may be one of inordinate anger, not because they are losing leisure, but because they are losing control of the bullying situation they are perpetrating.

This need for control over his devices becomes a top priority.

Attitudinal and Emotional Changes

Cyberbullying also manifests itself in the character of the minor. It is common to observe an increase in verbal aggressiveness or sarcasm in the home environment, replicating the behaviors he or she uses online.

They may show a marked lack of empathy for the suffering of others, whether in the news, in movies or in real situations, justifying the cruelty or minimizing it under the excuse of "it's just a joke" or "he deserved it".

Paradoxically, the child may experience a sudden surge in "popularity," receiving constant messages, notifications and complicit laughter from a small group of followers.

Often, the offender creates multiple anonymous accounts or profiles; discovering that your child is using identities other than his or her own is a red flag.

The child may appear elated or powerful after using the cell phone, enjoying the sense of dominance provided by digital aggression and the approval of their "reinforcers."

Summary

A child who cyberbullies will show great secrecy with his devices, closing screens and protecting his chats. He will become evasive about his digital life and will become upset if asked.

At the attitudinal level, he may show a lack of empathy, laugh at others' misfortune or use aggressive language. He may have multiple anonymous accounts or justify his actions as "pranks"

Parents may also notice an increase in his popularity (based on fear) or that he receives many messages/notifications that make him smile in a complicit way, hiding the context