Harvard University Student Creates App To Combat Cyberbullying

CAMBRIDGE, MA — A 21-year-old Harvard University student is finding a creative way to help prevent cyberbullying.

Trisha Prabhu, 21, created the app ReThink, which includes a custom-built keyboard to replace the keyboard on social media apps to alert users when they are about to send a hateful message.

According to her website, Prabhu says she was inspired to create the app after learning of Rebecca Sedwick, a 12-year-old girl from Florida who committed suicide after being cyberbullied for a year and a half.

Prabhu says she was a victim of harassment herself, and was left "shocked, heartbroken, and outraged" saying she couldn't be a bystander anymore.

"ReThink is transforming lives and conquering cyberbullying," Prabhu said in a statement. "Together, we will end digital hate - forever."

ReThink detects and stops online hate at the source, before bullying happens and the damage has already been sent. According to her website, research with ReThink has prompted adolescents to change their mind 93 percent of the time, and not send the offensive message.

Prabhu has given multiple TED Talks to explain her app and in 2021, she was the youngest honoree named to Forbes' 30 Under 30 Social Impact list.