Advice on Mobile Abuse

Did you know that every time a mobile phone is switched on it sends a signal. This signal goes to the nearest mast and although the caller may have concealed their number, and this information is then recorded on a system?

If you report text or mobile phone abuse it is this information which is used to find the phone number of the person who is behind the abusive messages.

Section 43 of the Telecommunications Act 1984 says that anonymous or abusive phone calls are a criminal offence.

So what if these so called offences are done as a prank, or a joke, you ask? You’re upset but you’re told ‘we were just having a bit of fun. Lighten up’.

The Act states roughly that the call has to be grossly offensive or of an indecent, obscene or menacing character: but also covers calls which are meant for the purpose of causing annoyance, inconvenience or needless anxiety to another.

Found guilty, a caller sending abuse via a mobile phone can get up to six months in jail or a fine.

Therefore, if what you are getting over your mobile phone is a bit more than a joke, keeping a record is essential. Don’t delete the messages. If they continue that is what you might need to get action taken.

Remember. Enjoy your phone. And don’t let the cybercrims take away the pleasure you get speaking to you friends.

 

---

Act Against Bullying is a UK Registered Charity No 1100132
P O Box 57962 London W4 2TG Tel: (44) 208 995 9500
info@actagainstbullying.org www.actagainstbullying.org
Copyright © 2010 Act Against Bullying. All Rights Reserved.
Terms and Conditions Contact Privacy Copyright Index Advice