Internet & Social Media Offences
Internet & Social Media Offences
The emergence of social media has revolutionised our means of communication. Although there are numerous benefits of living in a more connected and speedier world, as we all know, digital communication can result in misunderstandings and misinterpretations.
A remark that may be considered as harmless humour by one individual may be perceived as an offensive insult by someone else.
As a result, the digital world has created opportunities for new forms of abusive behaviour, such as cyberbullying and online harassment. This behaviour, if deemed appropriate for prosecution is often prosecuted under the Protection of Harassment Act 1997 and the Malicious Communications Act 1998 and often in tandem.
Online harassment is a pervasive issue in today's world, and it takes several forms. The following are some of the most common types of online harassment:
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Grooming is the act of an individual building an emotional bond with a child to gain their trust for the purpose of sexual abuse or exploitation.
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Stalking online is a type of harassment that can include persistent and frequent unwanted contact or interference in someone's life.
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Virtual Mobbing occurs when multiple individuals use social media or messaging to make comments to or about another person, often because they disagree with that individual's viewpoints. The volume of messages may constitute a harassment campaign.
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Online harassment involves repeatedly attempting to make unwanted communication or contact with someone in a way that is expected to cause distress or fear.
These types of online harassment can have serious consequences for the victims and have a harmful impact and consequently the courts take them very seriously.
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Trolling refers to the act of provoking or harassing others online by posting offensive comments on social media platforms. This behaviour can be punishable under the Malicious Communication Act 1988 and the Communications Act 2003.
Online threats may include various forms of threatening language directed towards an individual, group or organisation, such as threats of violence or harm. Whilst these offences too can be prosecuted under the heading of malicious communications, they can also amount threats to kill, offences under section 4 of the Harassment Act 1997 or even be deemed to be part and parcel of an allegation of controlling and coercive behaviour.