PROTECTING THE INDUSTRY FROM CYBERBULLING IN THE DIGITAL AGE

The Hairdressing, Cosmetology, Beauty, and Skincare Industry in South Africa is evolving rapidly, with digital tools becoming essential to everyday operations. From using WhatsApp to manage appointments, to showcasing creative work on Instagram and handling client bookings via mobile Apps, professionals in these fields are embracing technology like never before. But with this digital shift comes a new and pressing challenge: cyberbullying.

Online harassment within the industry is a growing concern. In tight-knit salon/spa environments - where teamwork, customer service, and high energy are crucial - cyberbullying can be especially harmful. It can erode trust, damage morale, create a toxic work culture, and even result in serious legal consequences for salon/spa owners and managers.

Understanding the Legal Framework in South Africa

South African legislation has responded to the realities of our increasingly digital lives. Laws such as the Cyber Crimes Act, RICA (Regulation of Interception of Communications Act), and POPIA (Protection of Personal Information Act) have established strict rules around digital conduct, especially in professional settings.

Under the Cyber Crimes Act, it is a criminal offence to access another person’s phone, email, or computer without permission. Penalties for this can include up to five years in prison.

Similarly, altering digital information or sharing humiliating or false content online is considered a criminal act. RICA reinforces this by making it illegal to record private conversations without the consent of everyone involved. This means that secretly recording client consultations or internal staff discussions is strictly prohibited.

POPIA, meanwhile, focuses on protecting personal information. This includes client contact details, staff rosters, digital communication records, and training materials. Any collection, use, or storage of such data must be done with full consent and handled securely. Salon/Spa owners or managers who maintain WhatsApp groups or social media pages may be held legally responsible for any unlawful content shared on those platforms.

How Cyberbullying Manifests in Our Industry

Cyberbullying is not always loud or obvious. In many cases, it appears subtly through dismissive comments in group chats, unflattering social media posts, or sharing images or videos without consent. A junior stylist might feel belittled if their work is criticised in a team WhatsApp group. A skincare therapist could be humiliated if their technique is mocked publicly on Instagram by a co-worker.

Sometimes, the bullying is more covert. This can include unfair manipulation of appointment bookings, excessive digital monitoring of clock-ins and clock-outs, or passive-aggressive behaviour through online messages. Because salons/spas are often competitive spaces - with commission-based earnings and clear hierarchies between senior and junior staff - it can be easy for this kind of behaviour to go unnoticed or be brushed aside.

However, the psychological impact of these behaviours is real. Cyberbullying not only undermines individual confidence but can also disrupt team dynamics and negatively affect the quality of service provided to clients.

The Consequences of a Toxic Digital Workplace

If left unchecked, cyberbullying can take a heavy toll on both individuals and businesses. Talented stylists, therapists, and assistants may choose to leave toxic work environments, leading to high staff turnover and the loss of valuable skills. The constant pressure and emotional distress caused by online harassment can lower morale, dampen creativity, and ultimately impact client satisfaction.

More seriously, there are legal risks. According to the Cyber Crimes Act, even informal or seemingly harmless messages shared in a private WhatsApp group can be used as evidence in a criminal case. Salon/Spa owners and managers who fail to address these issues may face personal legal consequences, along with reputational damage to their businesses.

Creating a Respectful and Safe Digital Culture

Addressing cyberbullying starts with leadership. Salon/Spa owners, managers, and independent professionals must take proactive steps to create a respectful and secure digital culture. This means separating personal and professional communications, especially on platforms like WhatsApp, where casual conversations can easily cross boundaries.

Establishing clear digital conduct policies is essential. These policies should explain acceptable behaviour on messaging platforms and social media, outline the rules for handling personal data, and define the consequences of violating these standards. But policies alone are not enough - they need to be actively communicated, integrated into training sessions, and reviewed regularly to stay relevant.

Another key aspect of prevention is encouraging open communication. Creating anonymous channels for staff to report digital harassment can help build trust and protect vulnerable team members. Any complaint - whether it comes from a junior apprentice or a senior stylist - should be taken seriously, investigated fairly, and resolved without bias.

A Stronger Industry Through Responsible Leadership

Our industry is known for its passion, creativity, and customer-focused spirit. But these strengths can only flourish in environments where professionals feel safe, valued, and respected - both offline and online.

Complying with legal requirements such as RICA, POPIA, and the Cyber Crimes Act is not just a matter of ticking boxes. It reflects a commitment to ethical leadership and business sustainability. When salon/spa owners lead by example - respecting digital boundaries, handling personal information responsibly, and promoting kindness online - they cultivate stronger teams and build long-lasting trust with staff, clients, and industry stakeholders.

From busy inner-city salon/spas to home-based beauty rooms, the message is clear: in the digital age, professionalism must extend beyond the salon/spa work space. By prioritising respect and accountability in every online interaction, our industry can continue to grow with integrity and confidence.