Cyber libel is a term used when someone has posted something that is false and
damaging about someone else on the internet, including social media platforms. In a
defamation lawsuit, the court may award general damages for loss of reputation which
will range from less substantial to large amounts of money. For further information on
defamation, click here.
A recent example of a successful defamation lawsuit is that of rapper Cardi B.
Facts
Cardi B filed her libel and defamation lawsuit back in March 2019. She claimed that
YouTuber Tasha K had published false, defamatory statements about her, including that
she used cocaine, worked as a prostitute, and had herpes.
Cardi B alleged that she suffered severe humiliations and mental distress due to the
multiple videos that were published online. The rapper’s lawyers argued that the content would damage her reputation with her fans and negatively impact any future business prospects. Her lawyers also said that Cardi B has never used cocaine, nor has she ever had herpes and that she was not a prostitute. The jury deemed Tasha K liable for defamation, invasion of privacy, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
Awards
On January 24, 2022, the jury awarded Cardi B with $4 million in damages including
$1.5 million in punitive damages and $1 million for general damages (pain and suffering
and/or reputational injury).
Updates
Tasha K’s lawyers said they disagreed with the verdict and plan to appeal it. The
YouTuber has denied any wrongdoing. On January 26, 2022, Tasha K posted a
YouTube video stating that she plans on continuing to fight for the truth and get justice,
even if she needs to take it to the Supreme Court.
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