A Tort Perspective on Cyberbullying

Abstract

New technology brings advances to society, but also creates new risks. The rise of the internet and social media have created tremendous issues with the right of privacy, cyber security, and cyber stalking. It has also created the new phenomenon of cyberbullying. Unlike prior schoolyard bullying limited in time and place, cyberbulling can exist 24/7 from a remote computer and spread globally. Once harassment and defamation occur on the internet, it is difficult to reclaim one's privacy and reputation. The law is searching for both civil and criminal remedies for cyberbullying. This article provides an outline of possible Tort theories for cyberbullying.

Keywords: Cyberbullies, Cyber Bullies, Cyberbullying, Cyber Bullying, Torts, Social Media, Invasion of Privacy, Prima facie Torts, Defamation, Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress, Hate Crimes