What to Do About Defamatory Content Online
Practical first steps when false and damaging statements have been published about you online.
Preserve the evidence
Take clear screenshots, save the URL and record when you discovered the content. Capture the account name, publication date, comments and any copies before contacting the publisher.
Avoid escalating the situation
A public argument can spread the allegation further. Keep any response factual and measured while you assess the platform, publisher and available removal routes.
Choose the right route
Depending on the content, a platform policy complaint, privacy request, publisher approach or legal advice may be appropriate. Complex or high-risk allegations should be assessed by a suitably qualified specialist.
Platform rules and removal rights depend on the content, evidence and context. Preserve the page before reporting it and avoid unsupported or repeated complaints.