Aside from the general risks of using chat rooms and instant messaging (IM) services, these services are also used by bullies.

Chat is a way of communicating with numerous people at the same time by typing messages which immediately appear on screen in a virtual meeting place, known as a chat room. Chat rooms have an element of anonymity so children may often have the confidence to say things online which they would not say face to face. While this can be a positive thing for some children, it can also lead to bullying. Groups are often formed in chat rooms, just as they would be in school, and can be used as a way of excluding or harassing others.

Children should be encouraged to always use moderated chat rooms, and to never give out personal information while chatting. If bullying does occur, they should not respond to messages, but should leave the chat room, and seek advice from a teacher, parent or carer. If using a moderated chat room, the system moderators should also be informed, giving as much detail as possible, so that they can take appropriate action.

IM is a form of online chat but is private between two or more people. The system works on the basis of 'buddy lists', where chat can only take place with those on your list. Children should only add people to their buddy list that they know, and reject requests from others to join their list. Although this effectively reduces the risk of being bullied by IM, abuse is still possible.

If a child is bullied or harassed by IM, the service provider should be informed giving the nickname or ID, date, time and details of the problem. The service provider will then take appropriate action which could involve a warning or disconnection from the IM service. If a child has experienced bullying in this way, it might also be worth re-registering for instant messaging with a new user ID.