Is cyberbullying on Facebook illegal on either criminal or civil grounds?

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Is cyberbullying on Facebook illegal on either criminal or civil grounds?

I want to pursue a cyberbullying incident any way I can. I want it to go to trial so they’ll know their behavior is unacceptable. I asked the police but they said nothing can be done because it was facebook. But I know there were cases where bullying on social media was prosecuted. He said I was being childish but I want them to know their actions have consequences, they need to act their age and what they did was wrong. I don’t want it to happen to anyone else. One of them threatened me; the other said horrible things about me. I am very depressed and it made me suicidal. Is there a case?

Asked on August 21, 2012 under Criminal Law, Pennsylvania

Answers:

FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 11 years ago | Contributor

There are civil and criminal statutes in all states in this country prohibiting "cyberbullying". From what you have written about, I suggest that you consult with a personal injury attorney to see if there is a factual and legal basis for a civil lawsuit against the person who "bullied" you on the internet and if so, what your legal recourse is.


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