If you fail to report cyberbullying, can you be sued?

The assertion that you cannot be sued for failing to report cyberbullying is grounded in the understanding that individuals are typically not held legally liable simply for inaction, particularly in situations such as cyberbullying. The legal landscape often focuses on the actions taken by individuals rather than their failure to act unless there is a specific legal duty to report, which is usually more applicable to mandated reporters in professional roles, such as educators or healthcare providers.

In many jurisdictions, the responsibility to act may fall more heavily on individuals who have a legal obligation or professional responsibilities related to the welfare of others. In the context of general students or community members, the law often does not impose penalties for failing to report an incident that they were not specifically obligated to disclose.

This does not dismiss the ethical implications of failing to report cyberbullying, as it can have serious consequences for the affected individual. However, legally, the inability to be sued for not reporting is often seen as a protective measure for individuals, distinguishing between ethical responsibilities and legal liabilities.