How can I defend myself against cyberbullying?
February 11, 2022 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Wanda Hartmann
Dear lawyer specializing in internet and computer law,
I am reaching out to you with an urgent question regarding cyberbullying. My name is Christiane Mühlberg and I have been a victim of cyberbullying for some time now. It started about two months ago, when I suddenly discovered insulting and defamatory comments about me on social media. These comments have become more frequent and aggressive, and I am now also receiving private messages with threats and hate speech.
I feel increasingly threatened and harassed, and I do not know how to defend myself against it. I have already tried to block the perpetrators and report the platforms, but so far without success. I am worried about my safety and mental health, as the attacks are taking a heavy toll on me.
Can you please advise me on how to defend myself against cyberbullying? Are there legal steps I can take to hold the perpetrators accountable and protect myself from further attacks? I would greatly appreciate your help and support in this difficult situation.
Sincerely,
Christiane Mühlberg
Dear Mrs. Mühlberg,
Thank you for your trust, and I am happy to address your concerns regarding cyberbullying. I am very sorry to hear that you have become a victim of this terrible form of digital violence. Cyberbullying can have serious effects on the victim's mental well-being and safety, so it is important to respond appropriately.
First and foremost, I want to emphasize that cyberbullying is illegal, and legal action can be taken against the perpetrators. In Germany, there are laws that regulate cyberbullying and provide legal protection for victims. Relevant laws include the Criminal Code (StGB) with sections 185 (insult), 186 (defamation), and 187 (libel), as well as the Law against Unfair Competition (UWG) and the Telemedia Act (TMG).
To address cyberbullying, I recommend that you first secure all evidence, such as screenshots of offensive comments and messages. Then, you should report the incident to the police and seek advice from a specialized lawyer in internet and computer law. They can help you take legal action against the perpetrators, such as issuing a cease and desist declaration or filing a claim for damages.
Furthermore, you should inform the operators of the platforms where cyberbullying is taking place about the incidents and request the removal of the offensive content. Often, these platforms have policies against cyberbullying and will act quickly to remove the affected content.
It is important that you do not feel alone in this situation but rather seek professional help and support. Talk to trusted individuals, seek psychological support, and actively defend yourself against cyberbullying.
I hope that my tips are helpful to you and support you during this difficult time. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions or need legal assistance. I am here to help.
Best regards,
Wanda Hartmann
Lawyer specializing in internet and computer law
