Q.How would you recognise if one of your friends is being cyber bullied?

This is a plain theory question with two distinct sub-parts. The answer must address both (a) and (b) in clear, exam-ready prose.

(a) You can recognise that a friend is being cyberbullied by watching for sudden changes in their online behaviour. They might become withdrawn, avoiding social media or messaging apps they once used daily. You may notice they delete their accounts, change their profile pictures frequently, or block a large number of people without explanation. Their posts or replies might become unusually defensive, sad, or angry. They could also receive repeated nasty comments, embarrassing photos being shared, or fake profiles being made in their name. Another clear sign is if they seem anxious or upset after checking their phone, or if they start sleeping with their phone hidden or turned off. If they tell you someone is spreading rumours about them online or excluding them from group chats, that is a direct indicator. …

This is a plain theory question — it asks for recognition and legal provisions, not code or a multiple-choice answer. The core idea is that cyberbullying leaves digital and behavioural footprints, and the law has specific tools to address it.

(a) Online activities that would help you detect cyberbullying

You would look for patterns in your friend's online behaviour that signal distress or targeted harassment. These are not one-off events but repeated, intentional acts.

• Sudden withdrawal from social platforms — a friend who was active on Instagram, WhatsApp, or gaming chats suddenly goes silent, deletes accounts, or stops posting. This often means they are avoiding the bully.
• Unexplained anger or sadness after screen time — if they become visibly upset, anxious, or defensive right after checking their phone or laptop, it is a strong indicator.
• Secretive or guarded behaviour — they might hide their screen when you approach, quickly switch tabs, or refuse to discuss what they are doing online. This is not normal privacy; it is fear.
• Receiving abusive messages or comments — you might see mean texts, memes, or public shaming posts directed at them. Look for repeated name-calling, threats, or spreading of rumours.
• Exclusion from group chats or online games — if they are suddenly removed from shared spaces or are the only one not invited, that is a form of social cyberbullying.
• Fake profiles impersonating them — someone might create a parody account using their photos and name to post embarrassing content. This is identity-based harassment.
• Doxxing (sharing private info) — if their address, phone number, or school details are posted publicly without consent, that is a serious red flag.
• Pressure to send explicit photos — sextortion or repeated requests for intimate images is a form of cyberbullying that often goes unreported.

(b) Provisions in the IT Act 2000 (amended 2008) to combat cyberbullying

The IT Act does not use the word "cyberbullying" explicitly, but several sections cover the acts that constitute it. The relevant provisions are:

• Section 66A — Punishment for sending offensive messages through communication service. This covers any message that is grossly offensive, menacing, or known to be false and sent to cause annoyance, inconvenience, or insult. However, note that the Supreme Court struck down Section 66A in 2015 (Shreya Singhal v. Union of India) as unconstitutional for being vague and overbroad. So while it was originally intended to combat cyberbullying, it is no longer valid law. You must know this for exams — the question asks about the Act as amended in 2008, but the current legal position is that 66A is dead.

• Section 67 — Punishment for publishing or transmitting obscene material in electronic form. If the cyberbullying involves sharing obscene images or videos (e.g., revenge porn), this section applies. First conviction: imprisonment up to 3 years and fine up to ₹5 lakh. …