Is the internet breeding ground for the worst of human nature? A closer look at the recent online attacks against Dylan Mortensen, a survivor of a harrowing attack, gives us some sobering insights.
 
 The forthcoming book by the parents of Dylan Mortensen, a survivor of a traumatic crime that shook the nation about a year ago, has rekindled interest in the incident. Tony Brueski, the host of the "Hidden Killers" podcast, delves into the heart of the situation in a recent conversation with psychotherapist and author, Shavaun Scott.
 
 Dylan, according to Brueski's account, was one of the rare few who saw the alleged perpetrator, Brian Kohberger, depart the crime scene. This revelation has caused a lot of stir, and the legal implications of her testimony could be significant. The discussion, however, veers into an alarming trend that the young woman has faced since the incident – online harassment.
 
 Scott states, "...she's been targeted left and right... pain and suffering are certainly what she's going through..." It's a distressing reality that survivors, instead of receiving support and empathy, become the targets of online bullying. Why does this occur, and what compels people to behave in such a manner? Scott ponders, "...why some people get this sense of power when they're behind a keyboard... These are very unhappy people and they're angry about a lot of other things."
 
 The internet's vast expanse and the anonymity it provides seem to be a potent concoction that emboldens many to lash out without fear of consequence. As Brueski succinctly puts it, "We're in a weird place in society right now where everyone has a megaphone and anyone who wants to go and express whatever nonsense is in their mind, they can go and do it." The vicious online attacks on Dylan parallel the conspiracy theories and targeted harassment faced by the families of Sandy Hook, a horrifying incident that still evokes strong emotions.
 
 The larger question here is the future of our digital interactions. With platforms that give everyone a voice, will we see more constructive discussions or destructive harassment? Scott appears rather skeptical about the possibility of change, highlighting the disturbing trend where people, empowered by anonymity, indulge in reckless behavior. She remarks, "...it just seems like people are empowered by anonymity, and they can look for targets, and it's just become a way of life for so many people."
 
 A concerning observation is the increasing number of individuals who seem to derive a perverse pleasure from online trolling and bullying. The grim reality is that, for some, this malicious behavior has evolved into a hobby. The rise of figures like Alex Jones, known for peddling conspiracy theories and falsehoods, only serves to underscore the challenges of the digital age.
 
 Brueski's discussion with Scott is a poignant reminder of the pitfalls of our interconnected world. While technology has ushered in numerous advantages, the unchecked spread of malicious behavior and targeted harassment on digital platforms is a dark aspect that needs addressing.
 
 As we reflect on the ordeal faced by Dylan Mortensen and countless others, we're left with an unsettling question: Is this the new norm for society, or will there be a digital reckoning that curbs such virulent behaviors?
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