Cyber Bullying: What It Means Legally and How to Address It

Q: Can I take legal action against someone for cyber bullying?

Yes, victims may pursue legal action depending on the severity of the behavior and local laws.

Q: Is cyber bullying only a problem for children and teens?

No, adults can also be victims of cyber bullying.

Q: What should I do if I am being cyber bullied?

Document the incidents, report them to the platform, and seek legal advice if necessary.

Q: Are there specific laws against cyber bullying?

Laws vary by state, and some states have specific anti-cyber bullying legislation.

Definition & Meaning

Cyber bullying is a form of harassment that takes place through digital platforms, such as the internet and mobile devices. It involves using technology to intentionally harm or embarrass another person. This can include sending threatening messages, spreading rumors, or posting derogatory comments online. The National Crime Prevention Council defines it as using digital communication to inflict emotional distress on individuals.

Table of content

Legal Use & context

Cyber bullying is relevant in various legal contexts, including civil and criminal law. Victims may pursue legal action against perpetrators for emotional distress, defamation, or harassment. Legal frameworks vary by state, and users can often manage these issues with appropriate legal forms and resources, such as those provided by US Legal Forms.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A student receives threatening messages via social media from a classmate, leading to emotional distress. This constitutes cyber bullying.

Example 2: An individual posts false rumors about a coworker on a public forum, intending to damage their reputation. This is also an instance of cyber bullying.

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State	Cyber Bullying Law
California	Has specific laws addressing cyber bullying in schools.
Texas	Includes provisions for cyber bullying in its education code.
New York	Has anti-bullying laws that encompass cyber bullying.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term	Definition
Bullying	A broader term that includes physical, verbal, and emotional harm, not limited to digital platforms.
Harassment	Any unwanted behavior that causes distress, which can occur both online and offline.
Cyberstalking	A more severe form of cyber bullying involving persistent harassment and threats.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are a victim of cyber bullying, consider taking the following steps:

Document all incidents, including screenshots of messages or posts.
Report the behavior to the platform where it occurred.
Consider speaking with a legal professional if the harassment continues or escalates.
You can explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you address the situation legally.

Find the legal form that fits your case

Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.

This field is required

Quick facts

Typical Fees: Varies by legal representation.
Jurisdiction: Varies by state.
Possible Penalties: May include fines, restraining orders, or school disciplinary actions.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

What constitutes cyber bullying?

Cyber bullying includes any harmful behavior directed at an individual through digital platforms, such as social media or text messaging.