Insults, slander, and defamation are unfortunately widespread on the internet. They include derogatory and demeaning statements intended to attack a person’s dignity. Online, insults often occur on social networks, in comment sections, or in private messages.
What qualifies as an insult?
An insult occurs when someone intentionally harms another person’s honor through words, images, or actions. Examples include:
Written hostility; disparaging remarks; racist statements
Derogatory comments targeting appearance, origin, or personality
Offensive memes or images specifically directed at an individual
Not every rude remark qualifies as an insult. To be punishable, the statement must be intentionally harmful and defamatory. We also place great importance on examining various fundamental rights, particularly freedom of expression for users.
What can you do in case of an insult?
If you are a victim of an insult, there are several steps you can take:
Report to the platform: Most social networks have reporting functions for offensive content. Use these to alert the platform to the incident.
Secure evidence: Take screenshots of the offensive content so you can use them as evidence later.
Submit a case: If the platform does not respond appropriately, you can submit the case to us. We will review whether the platform acted correctly or if it should have taken action.
Is insult punishable by law?
Yes, insults are punishable under § 185 of the German Criminal Code (StGB). They can be reported to the authorities and may result in legal consequences, such as fines. In particularly severe cases, imprisonment may also be imposed.
How does User Rights help?
We assess whether actions, such as removing posts or failing to act on a report, were justified. Individuals affected by platform decisions can file a complaint with us, which we will review and decide upon. While our decisions are not binding, they provide a comprehensive evaluation of your rights and options.
