Digital/Online Abuse

Unfortunately, there is no legal definition for online bullying in the UK, however, there is a lot of overlap between the types of online bullying/digital abuse and other laws.

This means that you can take legal action against those committing criminal offences online.

What Is Online Abuse?

Some examples of digital/online abuse are as follows:

  • Threatening messages – Sending threatening messages to you directly (often referred to as cyberbullying), or sending them to others whilst pretending to be you.
  • Using spyware – Gaining access to your devices to control them or monitor you.
  • Creating fake profiles – By creating a fake profile of you, they can post false information about you, including photos.
  • Grooming – A form of sexual exploitation, and most commonly (but not exclusively) associated with children who believe they are talking to other children online.
  • Sexting – Publicly sharing private messages between yourself and someone else online, usually of a sexual nature.
  • Cyberflashing – Sending unsolicited naked (or otherwise inappropriate) pictures to others.
  • Revenge porn – Posting naked photos or videos of your partner or ex-partner online.
  • Blackmail – Threatening to publish naked photos or videos, or any private/sensitive information to the internet.

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What Should I Do If I’m Being Digitally Abused?

You should speak to the police if you feel that you might be at risk of digital/online abuse. You should also take steps to protect your online security by updating your passwords and selecting “log out of all devices” when you do – this will kick out any other users who may already be logged in to your accounts. This cannot prevent all types of online abuse, but it may help with some cases.

If you want to pursue legal action, one of our expert qualified solicitors will be able to help advise you on what the best course of action will be. We can draft ‘cease and desist’ letters to social media platforms or websites that may have published false information about you, requesting they remove this immediately. We will also help you seek damages against the abuser for any pain and suffering caused, or take them to court for any crimes they have committed, including defamation, breach of privacy, internet libel, or misuse of private information.

If you have been a victim of abuse, you may qualify for Legal Aid to help pay your solicitor fees. To find out more, please check if you can get Legal Aid before you contact Higgins Miller so that you are fully aware of all the restrictions that may apply.

Check if you can get legal aid – GOV.UK

What If I’m Accused of Digital Abuse?

As previously stated, “digital abuse” is not a crime, although many crimes will fall under this umbrella. If you are facing either criminal or civil charges, then you will need to engage a specialist family law solicitor. We will help you to fight your side and protect you against accusations, to the best of our professional legal ability.

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To arrange to meet with one of our solicitors please contact us on 0161 429 7251 or email [email protected]

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