What to Do if You Have Been Wrongfully Accused of Cyberbullying

What to Do if You Have Been Wrongfully Accused of Cyberbullying

What to Do if You Have Been Wrongfully Accused of Cyberbullying

While bullying was once reserved for cafeterias and playgrounds, the nature of the digital age has provided additional platforms for unkind behavior to take place. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and other social platforms, while intended for social connection, often become a breeding ground for cyberbullying. As a result, cyberbullying has become a global issue, causing harm to both children and adults alike. However, in some instances, individuals may be wrongfully accused of cyberbullying and face severe consequences they don’t deserve. If you are facing false allegations of cyberbullying, it’s essential to seek counsel from a skilled criminal defense attorney. Here is some important information on what to do if you have been wrongfully accused of cyberbullying. 

 

Actions to Avoid If You Are Facing Cyberbullying Allegations

If you are facing false allegations of cyberbullying, it’s important to avoid certain actions that could cause more harm in the long run. Some actions to avoid include:

  • Deactivating the online accounts in question. Closing the account where the alleged cyberbullying took place and opening a new account often does more harm than good. Not only can this make you look guilty, but social media platforms and cell service providers are often legally able to retrieve your information regardless of your account’s status. 
  • Communicate directly with the accuser. While directly reaching out to your accuser may seem like the most natural way to diffuse the situation, it’s usually not the best approach—especially if they have already pursued legal action. In general, communicating with your accuser without legal representation causes a host of issues down the line. 
  • Communicate, threaten, or bribe parties who could provide testimony against you. Just like contacting your accuser, communicating with parties—especially in a threatening manner—that could testify against you could hurt you in court. As a general rule of thumb, avoid contact with any person who you believe the prosecution would reach out to for a testimony. 

Actions to Take if You are Facing Cyberbullying Allegations

While it’s important to avoid the previously mentioned actions, it’s equally important to take certain steps in the wake of cyberbullying allegations. Some steps to take after you have been accused of cyberbullying include:

    • Delete the messages, videos, or other content that has been cited in the allegations. Removing the content publicly as soon as possible will prevent further harm. Unlike deactivating your account, deleting the content in question is the best way to minimize the effects of the situation. 
    • Seek counsel from a criminal defense attorney. The best thing you can do in the wake of false cyberbullying allegations is to seek counsel from a lawyer. Handling the situation on your own could you put at risk for harsh penalties, such as prison time and fines. 
  • Communicate honestly with your attorney. Once you have hired an attorney, it’s important to communicate with them honestly about the situation and give them a full picture of your relationship with the accuser. In this process, view your lawyer as your ally. Withholding information from your lawyer will only cause unnecessary problems and surprises in court. 

Contact a Skilled Criminal Defense Attorney

In Florida, cyberbullying and cyberstalking are both serious offenses. If you are facing false allegations related to cyberbullying or cyberstalking it’s essential to seek legal action from a skilled criminal defense attorney. 

At The Umansky Law Firm, our criminal defense attorneys are dedicated to fighting for your rights. With over 100 years of combined legal experience, our team has the skills and expertise to develop a strong defense for your cyberbullying case. To schedule a free consultation, call our office or complete an online contact form for a free consultation.

 

What to Do if You Have Been Wrongfully Accused of Cyberbullying
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