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Threats and intimidationLion level

Anonymous threats of physical violence on Twitter: what should you do?

The situation

You receive anonymous messages on your Twitter account threatening to physically harm you. What should you do?

The right reflex

Take screenshots of the messages, block the user and report the incident to Twitter

Explanation and advice

If the threats are specific, credible or make you fear for your safety, report the incident to your local police immediately. Give them the screenshots of the messages as evidence, and tell someone close to you.

If you face online harassment, remember these 5 steps

  1. Take screenshots: they are your evidence.
  2. Report the content or the account to the platform.
  3. Talk to someone you trust so you don't face it alone.
  4. Contact the relevant authorities with your evidence.
  5. File a complaint if needed, with support.
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