Understanding misconduct

The University has a zero-tolerance stance towards any form of harassment or bullying, including online misconduct

Examples of online harassment include but are not limited to: 

  • Offensive language, racism and hate speech 
  • Sexual harassment, including sexualised bullying and unwanted sexualisation 
  • Failure to safeguard personal or confidential information 
  • Trolling 
  • Orbiting 
  • Cyberstalking 
  • Engaging in a cybermob or dogpiling 
  • Doxing 
  • Hacking 
  • Message bombing 
  • Online impersonation 
  • Intimate image abuse or revenge porn 

A Note on Terminology

PEN America an organisation created to protect free expression in the United States and worldwide have developed an Online Harassment Field Manual

Glossary of harassment and misconduct by Pen America

The University of Edinburgh Policies

If you’re at all in doubt about what kinds of behaviour are strictly prohibited for members of the University community, Section 12 of the Student Code of Conduct (pp.4-5) provides a list of examples pertaining to both physical and virtual spaces. Please bear in mind that, as per the Code of Conduct, which applies to all students, the University may choose to investigate and take action on any reports of misconduct occurring online and in social media.  

The Student Code of Conduct should be read alongside the University’s Dignity and Respect Policy and Trans Policy for a holistic view of expectations for student behaviour. 

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