Are there laws protecting people from defamation on social media?

Yes, there are laws that protect people from defamation on social media in Michigan. Defamation is a false statement, whether written or spoken, that harms someone’s reputation. In Michigan, both libel (written defamation) and slander (spoken defamation) are illegal. The Michigan Defamation Act (MDA) makes it illegal to publish false statements that defame an individual’s character. In other words, it’s illegal to post false statements on social media that damage a person’s reputation. The MDA also makes it illegal to make false statements about a person’s business, goods, or services. If someone posts a false statement on social media that harms a company or product, they could be at risk of being sued for defamation. In Michigan, those who are sued for defamation may be held liable for damages, attorney’s fees, and court costs. This means that they may be required to pay money to the person or company they defamed. It’s important to be aware that social media posts are permanent and can be used in court. Before posting anything on social media, it’s essential to make sure that all statements are accurate and based on fact. Doing so is the best way to protect oneself from potential liability for defamation.

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