All too often people are airing their grievances in social media forums. It seems as though every thought is now shared on social media. Many times, people will take to social media, blogs, and comment sections of online news forums and say some pretty awful things, even as far as making death threats.
In the wake of the 911 tragedies, what can be defined as a "terrorist threat" has now included language used online. The misconception by some is that freedom of speech gives one the right to say anything and everything they please without repercussion: Wrong! You can and will be held liable for threats made online, especially if they result in harm to another.
In this political season, people can become so divided that their anger spills over online. Some will make a snarky remark about a candidate on Facebook, while another becomes so enraged that he tweets death threats to a candidate, creating a serious situation for both parties.
More and more, technology is being developed to essentially abolish anonymity online. The government simply can't investigate every threat made on the Internet, but they have made it increasingly more difficult to not leave a digital trail.
Online bullying is another offense being taken much more seriously by lawmakers as they ramp up punishment in both state and federal laws regarding the severity of punishment.
As easily as authorities can catch Internet fraud, they can also trace back the origins of many threats. Sometimes when the person making the threat uses their actual name, they save the cops a lot of time and effort.
If you or anyone you know has been charged with "online crimes," contact San Jose Criminal Defense Attorney William Chestnut.
The Law Offices of William Chestnut
1625 The Alameda, Suite 400
San Jose, CA 95126
E: williamchestnut@msn.com
P: (408) 298-6990
F: (408) 899-2269
www.lawyersanjose.info
www.williamchestnutlaw.com
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