Libel and Slander

Defamation is a statement that affects the honour and good name of someone. If this statement is not true (and therefore a lie), it is called slander.

Punishable

Defamation and slander are crimes and are punishable under the Criminal Code.

Unlawful Act

In addition to the fact that defamation and slander are punishable, they can also be classified as a tort. On this basis, “the victim” can claim damages.

Internet

On the Internet, users are largely anonymous, which results in more direct speech and defamatory statements. However, if certain conditions are met, forums and providers are required to provide a user’s name and address details. In this way, the user is removed from anonymity and the damage may be recovered from him.

To Lexicon summary