What are the legal consequences of posting false or misleading information on social media?
In Wisconsin, posting false or misleading information about someone or a company on social media is considered defamation. Defamation of character is a type of personal injury claim and is illegal in Wisconsin. If a person or company can prove that false information was posted about them on social media and that it caused them damages, then they can sue the person responsible for posting the information as well as the platform or website the post was made on. According to Wisconsin state law, punishments for libel or slander (defamation of character) include fines of up to $25,000, as well as damages that may need to be paid by the person responsible for posting the false information. In addition, if the person or company that was defamed decides to sue and can prove they were harmed by the false information, the person or people responsible for posting the information can also be held responsible for damages caused. In short, posting false or misleading information on social media in Wisconsin can be an expensive mistake. Punishments for this type of behavior are severe, and can include hefty fines and damages. Therefore, it is important to verify any information before posting on social media, as well as be aware of the legal consequences of posting false information.
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