Sending threatening messages is when someone communicates, either online or offline, that they or someone else will:

Whether they intend to do what they’ve threatened or whether you actually feel afraid doesn't matter. It's an offence because they wanted to cause you fear by sending this type of message.

You might not be sure who sent the threatening message or what they intended when they sent it. That doesn’t matter, you can still report it to us and we’ll decide how to follow up on the details you give us.

Sending threatening messages can also be known as ‘death threats’, ‘cyber bullying’, ‘harassment’, or ‘trolling’.

Is it an emergency?

Call 999 now in emergency situations like these:

Support organisations

It’s upsetting if you’ve received any type of false, threatening or harmful message, but you can get help by speaking to these organisations that understand your specific needs.

UK Safer Internet Centre

Advice for children, young people, parents and carers on keeping safe online and dealing with online harm.

The Cyber Helpline

Free expert help for victims of cybercrime and online harm.

Epilepsy Society

Confidential helpline and trained operators who can answer your questions about what’s happened and give you advice on what to do next.

Galop

Charity supporting LGBT+ people who have experienced abuse.

SHOUT

Text the word ‘Shout’ 85258 for a free, confidential text support service for children, young people and adults. Get help with anything you’re struggling with, including cyberbullying.

Samaritans

Provides trained volunteers you can talk to about any abuse you’ve experienced.

Stop Hate UK

Independent, confidential and accessible reporting and support for victims, witnesses and third parties of hate crime.

Support for young people

The Mix

Gives free, confidential support for young people under 25 via online, social media and mobile phone.

Childline

Help for anyone under 19, including advice on how to stay safe online and how to keep your personal information secure.

Muslim Youth Helpline

Confidential advice and help for young Muslims who have suffered any type of threat or discrimination.

NSPCC: online abuse

Advice for parents and children about how to keep children safe online.

Meic

Help for anyone up to the age of 25 in Wales. Get advice on everything from staying safe on dating apps to updating your privacy settings. Phone, text or chat online from 8am to midnight, every day of the year.