The internet has given rise to e-venge, a form of electronic revenge that can involve uploading embarrassing videos or photos, public exposure on social networks, and disseminating incriminating emails. E-venge can be motivated by real-world events or online encounters, but legal liability and the near-permanence of the act should be considered before taking action.
Revenge may be a dish best served cold, but these days it can also be a dish best served anonymously and electronically. The universality and instant gratification of the Internet has given rise to a form of electronic vengeance known as e-venge. E-venge can take many forms, but commonly involves the uploading of embarrassing videos or photographs, public exposure on social networks, and/or the dissemination of incriminating emails or other communications.
Using the Internet or other electronic means to get personal revenge is not a new concept, but E-venge has become even easier to achieve with the advent of social networking sites and video hosting services. An embarrassing or humiliating video featuring a cheating spouse, for example, can literally be uploaded to a YouTube-style hosting site in minutes. A mass email detailing a person’s unethical behavior can be composed and sent directly to hundreds of Internet subscribers instantly.
E-revenge can be motivated by real-world events, such as in the case of a cheating spouse or abusive boss, or it can be triggered by online encounters with cyberbullies or heated arguments known as flame wars. The main point of many e-venge efforts is to draw public attention to the situation and hopefully put social pressure on the perpetrator. There are actually entire websites dedicated to reporting crestfallen parents or cheating romantic partners.
While many people may feel like seeking electronic vengeance, the standard rules of engagement still apply. The anonymity provided by many Internet discussion groups or social networks does not always protect posters from legal liability. If a video shows a cheating spouse and an identifiable accomplice, for example, that other party might be able to file a privacy infringement lawsuit.
Libel and defamation laws can also apply when it comes to e-venges, so any allegations of wrongdoing must be true and verifiable.
As with many acts of revenge, sometimes the thought is preferable to the action.
One of the challenges of exercising electronic revenge on a cyberbully or cheating spouse is the near-permanence of the act. It’s not always easy to unhook a doorbell, and removing electronic materials from further public view can be problematic. Others may make copies of your uploaded videos or emails and continue posting them for years after the fact. While thoughts of e-venge can do wonders for a victim’s self-esteem and sense of responsibility, actually committing an act of e-venge should receive careful consideration beforehand.
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