Misinformation and Online Abuse

Legal protection that addresses misinformation and online abuse is becoming increasingly important in today’s digital world. These services generally aim to help individuals or organisations protect their reputations and privacy, and can also involve criminal law. At Payne Hicks Beach, our integrated litigation teams are able to uniquely provide expertise in media, privacy and criminal litigation in one service to clients.

We work closely with individuals and organisations to support our clients and their other advisers (such as communications or reputation management firms) through the process and have worked on numerous high profile cases.

Tackling Misinformation

Our lawyers assist in disputes with technology and social media companies, including situations where harmful content isn’t removed despite requests, or cases where users have been wrongfully banned or defamed on platforms. In appropriate cases, such as false communications, we are also able to advise on the availability of criminal offences.

Online Abuse and Criminal Defence & Investigations

Online abuse, including threats of violence or stalking, can lead to criminal charges, and our lawyers can assist in filing these complaints with authorities as well as defending those accused.

• Restraining Orders and Injunctions:For cases of severe online harassment or cyberbullying, our lawyers can help secure restraining orders or injunctions to prevent further abuse.
• Identity Theft Legal Assistance:In cases where online abuse involves the theft of personal data, our services can help navigate identity theft claims and recover losses or damages.
• Anti-Cybercrime Services:Our legal experts understand internet law (for example, the Online Safety Act 2024) and assist victims of hacking, data breaches or malware attacks. We can also help file complaints with authorities and pursue civil claims for damages.
• Hate Speech and Online Threats:Legal services can provide support in pursuing justice against hate speech or threats of violence, which may violate hate crime laws or other legal protections.
• We are able to advise on the civil and criminal law position in relation to deepfakes and take swift action to protect our clients.
• Regulatory Compliance and Litigation: We advise on compliance with regulations regarding user-generated content, disinformation, online harms and privacy. Our lawyers represent a range of clients in litigation involving breaches of terms of service or online abuse.