Cyber bullying and the law

In most cases children and young people use mobile phones and the internet appropriately to swap gossip, make plans for the weekend, discuss outfits or debate the latest football results.

However, when this technology is abused, or used to harass or threaten others, there may be legal consequences. There are four UK statute laws and one Scottish common law that are relevant to the use of IT in relation to bullying. These are:

• The Protection from Harassment Act 1997
• The Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994
• The Malicious Communications Act 1998
• The Communications Act 2003
• Breach of the Peace (common law)