Many more businesses are becoming embroiled in defamation legal cases regarding social networking sites following the rise in the use of Twitter, Facebook and blogging, reports Michael Sandys, head of the Defamation department at Kirwans.

Many individuals now use these sites on a daily basis, to publish stories and photos, which are then sent around the world, being viewed by many and also edited by unknown sources. Significant harm can result from such messages with stories of extra-marital affairs and criminal behaviour being just two types of messages to be frequented on the net.

The reputation of a business can be on the line, with false accusations made about the quality of its products or services, which in certain cases enter the social media network and quickly make untold amount of damage, which may be irreversible.

If you or your business have been a victim of such fabricated or exaggerated tales then you should endeavour to take action immediately in order to remove the offending comments so as to: a) limit the damage to your business reputation; and b) ensure that such commentary is not repeated again by either the author of the offending comments or any other third party. A letter from a Solicitor may do the trick in bringing matters to an end, alternatively you may need to consider bringing a legal action against the author of the message and also the web host, so that your reputation or that of your business is protected and with the aim of securing suitable remedies such as an apology and/ or damages.

We at Kirwans have extensive experience in advising on all types of libel and malicious falsehood claims. We are also well aware of the power of the Internet and the need to act swiftly where there is real damage being done to your reputation or that of your business. For futher information please email Michael Sandys at msandys@kirwanssolicitors.co.uk.