Should Cyber Bullying Be Protected Under The First Amendment?

“More than 1 in 3 young people have experienced cyberthreats online.” (“Cyber bullying Statistics”). People all around the world are currently struggling with online threats, abuse, intimidation, etc. There has been controversy whether or not cyber bullying is included under the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. Cyber bullying should not be protected under the First Amendment because people can be guilty of electronic harassment, cyber bullying can cause physical and/or emotional harm, and online perpetuations can be prosecuted.
First, people that are cyber bullying can be guilty of electronic harrasment. Electronic harassment is a law in Utah that is put in place to catch any wrongdoing done by electronic means. “A person is guilty of electronic communication harassment and subject to prosecution in …show more content…
“Online perpetrators can be criminally prosecuted for criminal threats, cyberstalking, cyber harassment, sexual invasions of privacy and bias intimidation. They can be sued for defamation and intentional infliction of emotional distress. In a few states, they can also be held to account for bias-motivated stalking that interferes with victims’ important life opportunities, such as employment and education,” (Citron). Something as little as sending a couple threatening or stalking texts or posts on social media can greatly influence that bullies life to come. Being sued is no little thing as it will result in a huge loss of money and many days and hours spent with a lawyer. “Fourteen states impose criminal penalties including jail and fines on individuals convicted of cyberbullying. Penalties can range up to $2,500 in fines and up to a year in jail,” (Hirby). These consequences can ultimately lead to a tough life in the future. Employers don’t want to hire someone with any criminal record or who has had run in with the law. Cyber bullying doesn't just affect one person it affects many people around