The message is part of a video released by the Spanish National Police as it investigates this phenomenon in Aragon. “If your child uploads ‘curis’ videos or memes to target a classmate or teacher, this concerns you,” the recording begins. In it, officers urge parents to be aware both of the harm victims may suffer and of the liabilities that may arise for those who publish such content.
The police warn that cyberbullying can cause anxiety, isolation or fear of returning to school among affected minors. But they also point out that the consequences may extend to families. If a minor commits a crime, their parents, guardians, foster carers or custodians may be jointly liable for the damage and losses caused, under the terms set out in the Criminal Responsibility of Minors Act.
ACTIVATE PARENTAL CONTROLS
In response to this situation, officers offer a very specific recommendation: when giving a child their first mobile phone, establish clear rules agreed with them. “If you believe your child is mature enough to use a mobile phone, sit down together and put the rules in writing,” the police say.
This so-called “family contract” should set out issues such as when the phone may be used, which apps the minor can install, what limits apply on social media and whom they should contact if they detect a bullying situation. The police also advise activating parental control tools and jointly reviewing what content the minor posts or shares and who can contact them.
“Don’t wait for us to call you from the police station,” the police insist in a video intended precisely to prevent such situations from arising. The recommendation is to combine technological monitoring tools with dialogue, adapt the rules to the minor’s age and maturity, and clearly explain that an apparently funny post can end up humiliating another person and have consequences extending beyond the school environment.
