Workplace Cyberbullying in the Remote-Work Era: A New Dimension of Cyberology

Abstract

Information and communication technologies are being used as weapons in a combat zone created by the norm that forces individuals to work from home during this pandemic. The upsurge in workplace cyberbullying is visible in various reports. Workplace cyberbullying may appear to be a less severe form of harassment, but the shift to a more dispersed workforce has made it worse. It is the intimidation experienced by a remote or hybrid employee which results in a breakdown in communication with or mistreatment from leaders. While it makes sense to believe that because we are not at the office, occurrences of antagonism and harassment are drastically reduced, that's not the reality. Spiteful employers and demeaning coworkers might pose a virtual threat. Remote work settings are becoming toxic due to harmful, unkind workplace behavior, including derogatory language, social exclusion, and threats via phone, email, or social media. This chapter unveils a new dimension of cyberology.