What is flaming?
Is it hot in here? It feels like I’m close to a fire…
What is flaming?
Flaming is when someone repeatedly posts insulting and intimidating messages to another user online. It often happens on social media, chatrooms, YouTube, and gaming forums. These ‘flames’ are personal attacks meant to make the recipient feel ashamed and humiliated. It’s a very aggressive form of cyberbullying.
The person doing the flaming, or ‘flamer,’ might target someone based on their gender, sexual orientation, race, or economic status. Flaming is a serious form of discrimination and cyberbullying. If you want to learn more, check out resources from Social Media Victim’s Law Centre.
Flamers seek attention, whether it’s positive or negative. The anonymity of online platforms can make these attacks very intense. Flamers often use profanity and slurs, sometimes hiding them with slang to avoid getting caught by site monitors.
What is a flame war?
A flame war starts when someone takes the bait from a flamer and responds, leading to a heated argument between two people. To avoid a flame war or continued harassment, it’s best not to respond to the flamer. Instead, take screenshots and block or report them.
Where to get help
Flaming can escalate quickly. If the attacks include discriminatory language or threats of violence, talk to a trusted adult and contact the police. Collect evidence like screenshots and keep track of the accounts involved so the authorities can investigate.
Flaming is a serious form of online bullying that can lead to depression and isolation. If you or someone you know is experiencing flaming, seek support from counseling and support services like:
