Cyberbullying (silent predator): A modern menace and Sri Lanka’s struggle to overcome it

In today’s hyperconnected world, digital technology has become integral to how we socialise, learn, work, and share ideas. However, as with every tool, there is a darker side: cyberbullying, harassment, intimidation, or abuse carried out via digital platforms. This insidious form of bullying, which crosses time zones and screens, is increasingly harming individuals’ mental health, reputations, and even lives. In Sri Lanka, cyberbullying is not an isolated problem: a growing number of cases, public debates, and even tragic incidents have shown how vulnerable many are online.

- BY MILINDA MAYADUNNA

The digital world was once hailed as a space of connection, creativity, and opportunity. However, for many Sri Lankans today, especially young people, the screen has become a stage for torment. Cyberbullying, the silent predator lurking behind smartphones and computer screens, is fast becoming one of the most urgent social issues of our time.

Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying is not bound by time or space. It follows its victims into their bedrooms, study halls, and workplaces. A cruel comment posted at midnight, a doctored image shared in seconds, or a rumour blasted across Facebook groups can shatter a reputation overnight.

And, the torment doesn’t stop at the screen. It seeps into mental health, friendships, and sometimes even life itself. In April 2025, the tragic suicide of 16-year-old Dilshi Amshika in Colombo stirred national grief. While the case was complex, reports pointed to persistent online humiliation and harassment as a contributing factor. Her story is just one of many that illustrate the deep scars cyberbullying can leave.

Sri Lanka’s rapid digital growth has been a double-edged sword. More than 12 million citizens are now connected to the internet, and social media has become part of daily life. However, with this connectivity has come vulnerability.

According to Sri Lanka CERT, nearly 2,000 incidents of cyberbullying were officially reported in 2024 alone, nearly half involving sexual harassment online. Women in public life, politicians, journalists, activists are frequent targets, facing gendered insults, threats, and defamation campaigns.