What is the definition of cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying is a form of online harassment that occurs when someone uses technology, such as computers, smartphones, and the internet, to hurt, harass, or embarrass another person. Cyberbullying can take many forms, such as sending mean or threatening messages, spreading rumors, making embarrassing comments or pictures, or creating fake social media accounts to impersonate someone. Cyberbullying is more than simply a disagreement between two people—it is intended to cause harm or distress to the victim and can have long-term damaging effects. Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying is often anonymous and can follow the victim wherever they go, potentially causing significant distress. In Michigan, several laws have been made to protect individuals from cyberbullying. The Intimidation and Harassment Prevention Act includes cyberbullying prevention measures in its provisions. It prohibits the use of social media to communicate messages or images that are intended to “intimidate, harass, threaten, or otherwise harm another person”. The law also includes provisions that protect minors from cyberbullying. Michigan also has an anti-stalking statute that makes it a crime to use electronic communication to threaten or harass someone. Additionally, federal law, such as the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act, makes it illegal to distribute or threaten to distribute someone else’s information or photos in an effort to intimidate or harass them.
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