You’ve heard the saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” But what happens when someone posts malicious comments about you on the Internet? This trend, known as e-vengeance or cyber bullying, can have deadly consequences.

A Tragic Outcome

Megan Meier, 13, committed suicide after being taunted on MySpace by “Josh,” whom she believed to be a cute teenage boy. Unbeknownst to her parents, Ron and Tina, Josh’s profile was fake, and they believe it was created by an adult neighbor to monitor Megan.

“It is cyber bullying to the 10th degree.”

Policing the Internet?
Scott Rupp, a state senator proposing anti-cyber-bullying legislation, and Larry Walters, a First Amendment attorney, join the debate.

Was the cyber hoax a case of freedom of speech, or harassment?

No Laughing Matter

Colorado councilwoman Sandy Tucker made national headlines when she posted a controversial joke online. When the mayor asked her to remove remarks he considered offensive, Sandy resigned. She doesn’t feel the need to apologize and says people need to lighten up.

Was the former councilwoman out of line?

Keyboard Klansmen?

Terry says his civil rights are being violated when he receives racist taunts while playing Xbox Live. He’s been called the N-word and ‘monkey,’ and fears for the safety of his family.

“That is absolutely a federal crime.”