But cyber attacks are not just limited to young, vulnerable members of our community. Adults, men and women, who should know better also engage in online bullying daily.

At The Standard, we feel strongly about this issue. We probably see it more than most on a daily basis through comments submitted to our website and on our Facebook page. Keyboard warriors, as they have become known, launch personal, vindictive attacks while hiding behind anonymity and screens.

Recently we drew a line in cyber space. No longer will we publish comments on our website, positive or derogatory, from keyboard cowards. People quoted in our stories by and large are identified, with legal or safety reasons the only exceptions. So why should they be subjected to abusive, hurtful comments from these people who don’t have the courage of their convictions?

Shouldn’t you have the right to confront your accuser? What agendas, if any, do they have?

The response to our decision has been interesting.

We sent emails to prolific contributors who use noms de plume and many bounced back. Their email addresses were fake. What are they hiding?

A couple resorted to abusive responses. Of course, they failed to identify themselves.

This is not about silencing readers. 

The Standard believes in debate and discussion – that is one of our primary roles. But we believe readers should have a forum where they can express their views respectfully. We don’t have to agree with each other but in the interests of fairness, those brave enough to speak up should be rewarded for that, not abused and beaten into silence.

Those using social media to force their views on others are largely unaware of legal ramifications. Criminal and civil proceedings are possible simply by posting a comment on Facebook or Twitter.

The growth of social media has been extraordinary and improved communication opportunities for all of us.

But it’s how we use it that is important. It can be far more effective and productive for communities to use the technology in ways it was intended – not for abuse or ridicule. It is time to set an example – one that helps us not just today but for generations to come.