Defamation

To “defame” is to issue a false statement, to someone or some platform other than the defamed, about a person or group of people that harms their reputation or business. Defamation is split into two categories: libel and slander. Libel is the defamation of a person or group via permanent communication, such as untrue statements published in an article, while slander is defamation via transient communication, such as false accusations made in speech. Defamation is not only limited to speech and written word, however. It can take the form of paintings, drawings, photographs, status, and gestures. In cases of slander, a claimant must prove that damage has been done to them as a result of the defamation, which is not a requirement in libel cases. However, there are examples of slander whereby damage is assumed and therefore proving damage is not necessary, such as the accusation of a criminal offence, of being incapable to hold their profession, office, or business, or having and spreading a contagious disease. Social media use has led to the rise of online defamation – many people have been successfully sued for posting libellous material online and even for reposting or retweeting libellous statements.