Document the Defamation
Take Screenshots
Capture clear screenshots of the defamatory posts, comments, or messages. Ensure the date, time, and username of the person who posted the content are visible.
Save Evidence
Save emails and/or the URL of the post or comment and take notes on where and when it was posted. If the defamation includes a video or image, download it if possible.
NCDT Will
Evaluate the Content and Determine if It’s Defamation
With your assistance, the NCDT team will assess whether the post contains false information that harms your reputation. Together, we will consider the impact on your personal or professional life, such as lost job opportunities, emotional distress, damaged relationships, diminished credibility, or financial loss.
Report the Post to the Social Media Platform
Most platforms have tools to report harmful or defamatory content. When reporting, we will specify that the post contains false information and harms your reputation. Each platform (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, Instagram) has its own policies regarding defamation. They may take action such as removing the post or suspending the user’s account.
Reach Out to Our Legal Professionals
If defamation persists or causes significant harm, we will seek legal advice from our defamation or media law specialists. Our lawyers may recommend sending a formal cease and desist letter to demand the removal of false information. If that fails, then we will consider legal action. If defamation results in major damage (e.g., financial loss, career harm, or severe emotional distress), legal action with financial damagesmay be necessary.
Work to Restore Your Reputation
If widespread harm occurs, we will assist with making a public statement to correct misinformation and share your side of the story. Working together, we will set up alerts for your name and regularly check social media and search engines for related content. We may also employ online reputation management tools to track and counter negative information.Dealing with defamation on social media can be challenging, but quick action, thorough documentation, and legal assistance provided by NCDT can help protect your reputation and resolve the issue.
Need Support?
If you or your organisation has been the subject of defamation, targeted misinformation, or online harassment, please do get in touch with us in the strictest confidence. We are here to support those who defend the truth, uphold fairness, and stand for the future of Namibia’s conservation legacy.
