Stay Fashionable and Informed: What Every Hoodie Lover Should Know About California’s Cyberbullying Laws
When it comes to technology in the modern world, there’s no place more hip than the world of e-commerce. These days, you can shop for hoodies and other fashion items without leaving your home. But did you know that, if you fall victim to cyber bullying, you’re entitled to legal protections under the CAL. 647.6 Penal Code? While the law may be vague, one thing is certain: fashionable customers can never have enough knowledge of their legal rights and protections. Read on to find out more about how this legislation can impact those who frequent fashion forums and perhaps increase their own cyber stalking and bullying defenses.
Cyber bullying relates to defaming or threatening someone with a communication made over the internet or digital network. Whether threats were made in public or private, calling people out for their physical appearance can greatly impact their self-esteem, especially in the world of fashion. Consider, for example, registering on an online forum to discuss clothing or e-commerce brands. Other shoppers can view or read what you have written, which can result in damage to the brand’s or owner’s reputation. Should another member read something and take offense for any reason, he or she may retaliate with vulgar language or derogatory comments aimed at these individuals or groups. In fact, this comes in the wake of a number of criminal incidents surrounding online ads featuring sexy fashion images. In these cases, women and teens alike have been the target of “revenge” campaigns, which are basically just a grisly combination of illegal photo-sharing, cyber-bullying, and harassment.
So how do you know if knowing the law on cyber bullying will help you, as a consumer, while engaging in fashion forums? What does the law say, and how can it protect you? California law for cyber bullying is clearer than most people think, particularly if the incident is a direct threat of violence against the person. Even an expression of intent to engage in violent action in the future falls under the law if there is a credible threat to commit such action that causes the person to experience fear or distress. Generally, if you file a complaint under this law, California may issue an injunction against the perpetrator, who can face criminal sanctions in addition to the legal advice you may wish to seek after being bullied online. Those who witness or know that the person has engaged in harmful behaviors can also report the perpetrator.
But where exactly can you go to file a complaint, and what kind of issues will come up? Consider the following: Overall, fashion is a tool for people to express themselves in a way that’s unique to them. While you should not take bullying or malicious comments lightly, you can do so without losing your sense of style or individuality at its core. However, it’s still crucial that you understand how the law can provide redress should you choose to pursue it. Educate yourself on the law, and file a complaint if necessary. Above all, make sure the bullying of any sort does not impact your safety.
As a final note, remember that it’s important to stay ahead of the curve. Watching for violators and identifying them will help maintain a safe personal space on the forums you choose to visit. Finally, be sure to see how crimes against style can impact your safety. Whether you’re buying hoodies or other fashion items, you’re entitled to a fair and peaceful shopping experience without worry of being bullied or threatened for voicing your opinion. Make sure you fully understand everything about the law, and remember to check back with this article for further details.