With the spread of digital technology, the internet has become not only one of the most important tools for exchanging information and staying connected but also a breeding ground for new forms of harassment, commonly known as cyberbullying.
To curb the most severe forms of online harassment, the Criminal Code was amended as of January 1, 2025, introducing the offense of online aggression.
A person commits online aggression if they publicly, through an electronic communication network, use or share expressions, depictions, or audio-visual content that, in relation to an identifiable individual, expresses an intent to commit a crime resulting in death or involving extreme cruelty.
A person does not commit online aggression if the act is carried out for:
- Educational, scientific, or artistic purposes;
- Historical or current event reporting;
- provided that the act is not capable of instilling fear.
The law prescribes up to one year of imprisonment for online aggression. However, this does not necessarily mean that offenders will face jail time. As this is a new offense, there is no established case law yet, but in similar crimes of this severity, imprisonment is typically only imposed in extreme cases. More commonly, offenders can expect: community service, fines, probation, particularly if it is their first offense and mitigating circumstances apply.
If you have been a victim of online aggression or are facing charges related to this offense contact our law firm for expert legal assistance!
