Q: Recorded using n-word, posted online, facing harassment. Legal steps?
I was recorded saying the n-word without my consent, and the video was posted on Instagram. Despite reporting it to Instagram, I am facing ongoing verbal harassment online, and it's impacting my life. I haven't contacted the person who posted the recording, but I know who shared and commented on it. What legal actions can I take to address this situation?
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A:
If you are facing harassment after the video was posted without your consent, you have several legal options. First, document all instances of harassment and save any communications that show the ongoing verbal abuse. This evidence will be crucial in case you need to take legal action.
You may want to report the harassment to the platform where it is happening, such as Instagram. If you haven't already, try to file a formal complaint with the platform's support team, which might lead to the removal of the video and account sanctions against the individual who posted it.
Depending on your location, you may also have legal grounds to pursue a defamation or harassment claim. In some jurisdictions, sharing content that damages someone's reputation or causes emotional distress could lead to legal consequences for the person who posted it. Consulting with a legal professional to explore these options and potentially send a cease-and-desist letter could help stop the harassment.
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