Cyberbullying And Online Harrasment: Legal Challenges
- IJLLR Journal
- May 3
- 2 min read
Aryawat Khandelwal, Amity University, Noida
Dr. Niharika Singh, Amity University, Noida
Introduction
1.1 Defining Cyberbullying and Online Harassment:
Intentional and persistent harm caused by electronic devices, including computers, smartphones, and other gadgets, is known as cyberbullying. Usually, this behaviour consists of violent acts meant to threaten, degrade, or embarrass those who are unable to defend themselves.
The term "online harassment" refers to a wider variety of actions carried out through digital platforms, such as rude and unwelcome emails, threats, stalking, and the spread of misleading information. Online harassment can impact people of all ages and in a variety of settings, such as public spaces and workplaces, in contrast to cyberbullying, which frequently includes peers and is common among teenagers.
In the contemporary digital landscape, the widespread use of the internet has led to the emergence of new types of interpersonal aggression, particularly cyberbullying and online harassment. Although these terms are frequently used synonymously, they represent different behaviours that carry unique legal and social consequences.
Cyberbullying is defined as the act of using electronic communication to intimidate or harass an individual, typically through the transmission of threatening or distressing messages. This behaviour is often characterized by its repetitive nature, with the intent to instil fear, provoke anger, or induce shame in the victim. Common venues for cyberbullying include social media platforms, messaging applications, gaming sites, and various online discussion forums.
Online harassment refers to a wide range of abusive behaviours carried out through digital platforms. This term includes actions such as sending threatening communications, disseminating false information, doxing (the act of revealing private information), and engaging in cyberstalking. In contrast to cyberbullying, which typically involves young people and peer relationships, online harassment can impact individuals of all ages and can take place in numerous settings, including workplace environments.
