"Don't feed the trolls": Cyber bullying
Amongst
the millions of users of social media platforms, sadly there are sure to be a
number of unpleasant individuals.
"Trolling" refers to behaviour where internet users specifically try
to provoke an emotional response. Often this will be in situations where there
are online discussions or debates and "trolls" make inflammatory comments
to disrupt the discussion.
"Trolls" are rather more dangerous in instances of cyber
bullying individuals that they know personally. In South Africa there are laws
to protect people against cyber bullies such as the Protection from Harassment
Act, 2011.
If someone is sending "unnecessary"
and frequent cruel, offensive or threatening messages to an individual they may
be guilty of direct harassment, a form of cyber bullying. Another form of this
is indirect harassment which may include rumour mongering on social media
platforms or forums. In either instance,
if the victim has a clear idea of the identity of the "troll" he or
she will be able to approach the Magistrates Court to request a protection
order.
Even if the abuse is anonymous, a
victim may approach the Magistrates Court with the IP address of the
perpetrator and the court may order that the service provider reveal the name
of the person.
It may be best to try to ignore or block the "troll";
however, if it becomes completely intolerable and invasive there are legal
remedies to assist you.
Shepstone & Wylie Social Media Law Department
Have you ever been a victim of cyber-bullying?