How Social Media Posts Can Lead To Criminal Charges
An integral part of many people’s lives, social media platforms are used for work, self-expression, and communication. While a lot of social media activity is pleasurable, it is also important to recognize that online communications can go awry, and some content shared online leads to serious legal consequences.
If you live in Texas and are worried that you will soon be accused of social media threats, harassment, stalking, or cyberbullying, talk to a Houston criminal lawyer. Texas attorneys who have worked on cases involving social media understand the potential legal ramifications of unwanted online behaviors and will take steps to protect your rights.
Threats, Harassment, and Cyberstalking
Posting threats or making intimidating statements on social media platforms is not something you can do free of consequences, criminal charges are possible. It is a criminal offense to make terroristic threats or engage in harassment, for instance. When a person makes threats of violence, suggests they will harm others, or states they will engage in an act of terrorism, these threats are taken seriously by law enforcement and legal consequences can follow.
Online harassment or cyberstalking can also lead to criminal charges. Harassment refers to the intentional and repetitive actions aimed at causing distress or fear to another person. Examples of harassment include sending threatening or abusive messages, making derogatory comments, or spreading false information with the intention of harm. And when someone uses social media platforms to track, monitor, or harass individuals, causing them significant emotional distress, their behavior could be labeled as cyberstalking.
Charges Connected to Invasion of Privacy or Fraud
Posting private or intimate information about someone without their consent is also illegal and can prompt criminal charges for invasion of privacy. For example, if someone is accusing you of sharing private photos, videos, or personal information that is causing them emotional distress, legal action could follow.
Additionally, there are situations in which criminal charges are brought because a person was using social media platforms to engage in fraudulent activities or identity theft to commit financial crimes. Fraud charges could be brought if the offending individual is creating fake profiles, engaging in phishing scams, or stealing personal information.
Being aware of the legal boundaries and potential consequences of online actions is essential, both to protect your own privacy and keep yourself out of legal trouble. The reality is that threats, harassment, stalking, cyberbullying, and other forms of criminal behavior on social media have repercussions. To learn about the potential risks of unwelcome online behaviors or to begin mounting an effective defense against criminal charges related to social media, seek legal counsel from an experienced Houston criminal lawyer.
Who has accused you of online harassment? Share all of the details of your situation with a seasoned attorney in order to protect your future. Taking charges seriously is essential, because there can be harsh consequences for social media threats. Discuss your case with the legal team at Ayson Law Firm to explore your options. Reach out today to schedule your no-cost consultation.
