What is cyberbullying and what are the legal implications?

Cyberbullying is a form of bullying that occurs online or through electronic communications. It involves sending, posting, or sharing negative, harmful, or false information about another person through electronic devices, such as social media, text messages, or emails. Cyberbullying can also include excluding someone from online activities. In Washington, legal implications of cyberbullying are enumerated in two pieces of legislation: The Healthy Youth Act of 2018 and The Anti-Harassment, intimidation, and bullying law of 2012. Under these acts, cyberbullying can be considered a form of harassment, intimidation, or bullying, which could result in legal action. Schools are also required to have a policy in place to protect students from cyberbullying. In addition, cyberbullying in Washington is treated as a form of criminal harassment and is punishable under the law. If a person is found guilty of cyberbullying, they could face both civil and criminal penalties, including fines, jail time, or both. In the worst cases, cyberbullying can even lead to felony charges. For those that are victims of cyberbullying, they can seek help from their school, parents, or law enforcement authorities. Schools have the authority to discipline students who engage in cyberbullying and intervene on behalf of students who are cyberbullied. In addition, victims can also file a civil lawsuit against the person engaging in the cyberbullying for damages or seek protection orders from the court.

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