Defamation is when a person makes a false statement - which could be interpreted as fact - that points a negative light on another person, business or government. Slander is spoken defamation, while libel is written defamation.  Put simply, if an individual types false comments online, they aren't committing slander, but alternatively, libel. The only instance when online defamation is considered to be slander happens when the statement under consideration is part of an online video.

Defamation is illegal; but proving it is hard. There are numerous standards which have to be met to be able to win an online defamation lawsuit. Further, the statue allows for substantial amounts of interpretation, so each case must be carefully examined and judged on its own merits.

At present, only two nations around the world - China and South Korea - possess language-specific online defamation regulations. Many states in the U.S. have taken legislative steps towards online defamation regulation but, there has been minor meaningful development at the federal level.

The suicide of a adolescent Missourian forced the first attempt for federal government legislation in the United States. In 2006, 13-year old Megan Meier committed suicide after a "friend" on the internet sent degrading and insulting messages. Following her death, it was discovered that the “boy” was actually a friend of Megan’s and the in addition knew the mother.

internet slander

Local prosecutors did file charges against the parent and teen for Megan’s death. Federally, the mother was found guilty of misdemeanour computer abuse violations. The uproar over the trial led many states to update existing laws. Also, a piece of federal legislation bearing Megan's name was introduced. The legislation has yet to be passed since many feel it may hurt free-speech rights that are granted by the constitution.

The line between freedom of speech and online defamation is currently under debate in the hallowed halls of Capitol Hill.  In Megan’s case, the bullying party made many statements about Megan’s character that were not true.  However, due to the nature of freedom of speech - and the power of the Internet - lawmakers seem reluctant to tighten the online defamation reins. More people plug in to the internet daily and continue to voice opinions that could be seen as defamation. This causes the chances for similar cases to multiply drastically.