4.2.5 Investigating

The nature of investigation will depend on each specific case of cyberbullying. It might include:

  • Reviewing available evidence
  • Saving available evidence (printing, taking a picture, saving on a secure location etc.)
  • Interviewing students (victims, bullies, bystanders)
  • Trying to identify the bully
  • Looking at the media and technologies used

Take note that in most European countries, school staff members do not have the authority to search students’ belongings, including their phones, tablets, and other devices. You may ask the students to show you the devices and the content, but you cannot make them do it.

If the incident has signs of a criminal offense, the school is mandated to report to authorities and should be careful not to interfere with police investigations.