If someone tells you they are being harassed, threatened, impersonated, or targeted online, start by listening. Let them explain what is happening in their own words, and take their concern seriously.

You do not need to investigate or decide whether the experience is “bad enough.” A calm response such as “I’m sorry this is happening. What would feel helpful right now?” can give them room to choose what comes next.

Follow their lead

Ask what support they want before taking action on their behalf. They may want company while they report an account, help adjusting privacy settings, or simply someone to check in later. Avoid confronting the person responsible without their agreement; that can escalate the situation or draw more attention to the target.

Do not blame them for what happened or pressure them to share details. Abuse is the responsibility of the person choosing to cause harm. Respecting the person’s pace helps them regain a sense of control.

Support means offering choices and staying present, not taking control away from the person affected.

Help preserve options

If they want to document what is happening, help save relevant messages, account names, dates, and links in a secure place. Do not repost abusive content or circulate screenshots beyond people who need them. They can use the platform’s reporting tools, block or mute accounts, and tighten privacy settings if those steps feel right to them.

If the abuse is happening in a chat community, encourage them to contact a moderator or staff member. Share only the details needed to address the behavior and ask how the report will be handled. A trusted person can sit with them while they take those steps.

Take urgent threats seriously

If there is a credible threat of immediate physical harm, exposure of someone’s location, or danger to a child, help them reach a trusted local adult or appropriate emergency and specialist support. Do not promise secrecy when someone may be in immediate danger. Let the affected person know what you are doing and keep their safety at the center.

Online abuse can be exhausting even after an account is blocked or a report is filed. Check in later without demanding an update. Practical care, patience, and companionship can help someone feel less alone.

Further guidance

You may not be able to fix everything, but you can help make the next step feel less isolating.