Libel refers to malicious remarks that are damagingly misrepresentative or malicious, and that are presented in written form. In the good old days, squabbles between individuals and companies were handled by phone calls and letters. These days, it’s just too easy to let your fingers do the walking, and Google Libel has become quite a problem.
When your personal or company name starts popping up on search engines, you want it to be positive. One of the more popular of these search engines has had a bit of an increase in what is referred to as Google Libel. This refers to posts that are defamatory in nature and often come up quite near the top when you or your company is researched. There are some key acid tests you can apply to determine if you have received Google Libel. If the answer to any of the three questions below is ‘yes’, it is likely that the threshold has been crossed.
ü Is what they stated about you false?
ü Was the material visible by more than ten people?
ü Did the written material accuse you of one of the following:
Being sexually deviant, committing a crime; being incompetent to perform your profession; and/or having a horrible disease.
Although in the United States, we are all provided the right of free speech via the First Amendment, we are not granted the right to make libelous statements. Knowing the difference is a responsibility we all share, and when it comes to Google libel, it can be particularly damaging, as this site is many people’s first choice when performing research.
If you have fallen prey to Goggle libel, you need to take action quickly. Effectively eradicating the problem can be accomplished in a variety of ways. The most gentle would be to simply let the culprit know that they have been caught in the act and that you are going to do something about it. The most severe would be taking the culprit to court.
The biggest hurdle you may face in cleaning up your online reputation is usually identifying the attacker. Most who make libelous comments on the internet are quite adept at hiding behind anonymous nicknames and email address. You need the help of a cyber investigation firm, to guide you through the intricacies of eliminating the problem.
Reputation Defense Online is the best of the best in this regard. Their first course of action is to perform a free initial consultation. At this stage, they determine which path to start on to completely eradicate the problem. They then perform an in-depth investigative procedure until every attacker has been identified. Putting the attacker on notice and demanding cessation of postings is the next step. Collection of all information that will be needed in case of a lawsuit is studiously performed. Then, a lawsuit is filed and settlement reached (if possible). Finally, if necessary, a full-blown lawsuit is conducted.
In sum, Google libel is not to be taken lightly. It can absolutely ruin your good name. If there is any doubt, you should visit sit the cyber investigation professionals at www.ReputationDefenseOnline.com. You will be surprised how much a clean online reputation can enhance your relationships and your business!
