Cyberstalking, Harassment, and Bullying Legislation

Prior to beginning work on this discussion, read all the required resources for this week.

The advent of the Internet and the subsequent proliferation of online social media has given people worldwide new and exciting ways to communicate and connect with family and friends. However, there is the unfortunate reality that the world of social media also draws those whose intents are not to interact in socially desirable or appropriate ways. There have been numerous instances of cyberstalking, cyberbullying, and cyberharassment that have been sensationalized in news programs and televised dramas.

After instances of suicide and even murder, legislative bodies in many nations began to look for possible solutions to curb the problems associated with cyberstalking, cyberharassment, and cyberbullying. The United States and Great Britain appear to be leading the charge in developing legislation designed to put an end to the harmful effects of online antagonism.

For this week’s discussion, analyze current legislation that has been developed in efforts to end cyberstalking, cyberharassment, and cyberbullying. At times, official legislation fails to take into account the harm online crime inflicts on individuals. Select at least one prominent piece of legislation, and examine how it is intended to function to cease an antagonist’s behavior.

QUESTION

Describe the crime the legislation you selected is designed to combat.
Examine the various devices perpetrators of cyberstalking, cyberharassment, and/or cyberbullying use to target their victims.
Evaluate at least two legal issues that arise from law enforcement efforts to combat cyberstalking, cyberharassment, or cyberbullying