2024-08-06 –, Florentine F
Cyber harassment presents a complex challenge in the legal realm, often leaving individuals feeling powerless. Aiming to clarify the blurred lines surrounding online harassment by addressing whether words on the internet, in emails, or private messages constitute harassment, threats, or fall under freedom of speech. Detailing common procedures to secure evidence and protecting yourself, a friend, or a child from the constant feeling of being attacked. Drawing from personal experience, the author provides a series of protective options for individuals and their loved ones, emphasizing the importance of seeking help and not succumbing to helplessness. Highlighting the availability of protective orders, Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) benefits, and other resources. Speak out loudly about the severity of online harassment, noting its potential to drive adults, children, and teens to suicide while leaving parents and friends feeling overwhelmed and powerless to help. Stop the silence and save lives is a call to action by the infosec community, advocating for change and emphasizing the urgent need to combat online harassment, which is just as harmful as in-person harassment.
Cyber harassment is a grey area in the legal world. Protecting yourself or your child/loved one can feel impossible, however it should not feel this way!
Are words on the internet/emails/private messages considered harassment, seen as threatening, or just freedom of speech?
Life tossed me a curveball, which resulted in a life experience which lets me share how to help individuals through a series of options to be protected and for additional help. Since speaking out I have also assisted others with their cases.
Do not feel helpless, options are available. Protective orders can be obtained, FMLA, and other options. Online harassment is causing children/teens to commit suicide and parents feel helpless! Something needs to change, and we must fight for that change since online harassment is just as real as in person.
Laura Johnson is a Security Manager, who started her career by joining the military unaware of how much she would fall in love with "security and things". Earlier in her career, Laura held roles such as Maintenance/Integrator, Network Engineer, Consultant, and Managing Security Engineer. Laura has first-hand experience in regards to cyber harassment and would like to share her knowledge to assist individuals in options.