Privacy, Devices & Citizenship · lesson 11 of 17 · 15 min
Reporting problems online
When you see something wrong online — bullying, inappropriate content, a scam, or someone being treated badly — you have the power to help by reporting it. Reporting is not tattling. It is taking responsible action to protect yourself and others. Most websites, apps, and games have a built-in report button for exactly this purpose.
Think of reporting like calling a lifeguard at a pool. If you see someone in trouble, you do not ignore it — you get help. Online reporting works the same way. When you report harmful content, the platform can review it and take action to remove it or warn the person responsible.
How to report: Look for a flag icon, three-dots menu, or “Report” button near the content. Describe what happened clearly. Always tell a trusted adult too — they can help you follow up if needed.
What to report
Bullying or harassment Mean, threatening, or repeated harmful messages directed at you or someone else. Inappropriate content Content that is scary, violent, or not suitable for your age group. Someone asking for personal info An adult or stranger asking for your address, phone number, school, or photos. Fake accounts Accounts pretending to be real people — friends, celebrities, or trusted organizations. Scams Messages offering prizes, free items, or asking for money in suspicious ways. Anything that makes you uncomfortable If something feels wrong, trust your instincts and report it — even if you are not sure.
Step-by-step: how to report
- Find the report button. Look for a flag icon, three dots (⋯), or a “Report” option near the content or profile.
- Choose the reason. Most platforms ask you to select why you are reporting — choose the option that best describes the problem.
- Add details if asked. A brief description helps the platform understand what happened.
- Submit the report. The platform will review it — this may take some time.
- Tell a trusted adult. Always let a parent, teacher, or trusted adult know what happened so they can help follow up.
Key words to remember
- Report
- Flag
- Trusted adult
- Platform
- Moderation
Match each reporting concept to its description
Reporting problems online — quiz
Why is reporting problems online important?
- It gets people in trouble for no reason
- It helps protect you and others from harm
- It deletes the problem automatically
- It is only for adults to do
Answer: It helps protect you and others from harm
Reporting harmful content or behavior helps platforms remove it and protect everyone.
Reporting something online is the same as tattling.
- True
- False
Answer: False
Reporting is responsible action to protect yourself and others — it is not tattling.
After reporting something online, what else should you do?
- Nothing — the report handles everything
- Tell a trusted adult so they can help follow up
- Post about it publicly
- Message the person who did it
Answer: Tell a trusted adult so they can help follow up
Always tell a trusted adult after reporting — they can help make sure the situation is handled properly.
Where do you usually find the report button on a platform?
- In the settings menu only
- Near the content — as a flag icon or three-dots menu
- On the home screen
- You have to email the company
Answer: Near the content — as a flag icon or three-dots menu
Most platforms place a flag icon or three-dots menu near posts and profiles for easy reporting.
You should only report something if you are 100% certain it is wrong.
- True
- False
Answer: False
If something feels wrong, trust your instincts and report it — even if you are not completely sure.
Which of these should you report?
- A funny video from a trusted channel
- A stranger asking for your home address
- A friend’s birthday post
- A school announcement
Answer: A stranger asking for your home address
Any adult or stranger asking for personal information from a child should be reported immediately.
What is a fake account?
- An account with a funny username
- An account pretending to be a real person
- A private account
- An account with no profile photo
Answer: An account pretending to be a real person
Fake accounts impersonate real people — they should be reported to the platform.
Platforms review reported content and can remove it if it breaks their rules.
- True
- False
Answer: True
Platforms have moderation teams that review reports and take action on harmful content.
What is the best comparison for online reporting?
- Telling a secret
- Calling a lifeguard when you see someone in trouble
- Complaining about something you do not like
- Asking for a refund
Answer: Calling a lifeguard when you see someone in trouble
Reporting is like calling for help when you see a problem — it is the responsible thing to do.
What should you include when reporting content?
- Your home address
- A brief description of what happened
- Your password
- Your phone number
Answer: A brief description of what happened
A clear description helps the platform understand the problem and take appropriate action.
Try it: Reporting a problem – in order
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