Legal Implications: Impact of Social Media on Workplace Harassment

Tennessee employees spend increasing amounts of work time online. Unfortunately, that means methods of workplace harassment have shifted from in-person to electronic forums, including social media.

People who choose to harass their co-workers may use social media either to take advantage of the anonymity of the Internet or in the mistaken belief that harassing co-workers on electronic platforms unconnected with work means their employer cannot discipline them. However, workplace harassment on social media can still have legal implications for the harassers, employers, and victims of harassment.

What is Social Media Harassment?

Social media harassment is using platforms like Facebook, Instagram, X, or TikTok to annoy or alarm one or more specific individuals. Harassment can take the form of:

• Inappropriate comments
• Unsolicited messages sent frequently or at inconvenient hours
• Offensive images, videos, or written content
• Threats directed toward the target(s) of the harassment

Can an Employer Be Held Liable for Social Media Workplace Harassment in Tennessee?

An employer may be liable for workplace harassment that occurs on social media under certain circumstances. For example, if employees use work computers or phones to send harassing posts or messages via social media, their employer may bear liability because the harassment occurs in the workplace during working hours.

An employer could still be liable for harassment conducted outside of working hours if the working relationship facilitated the harassment or if the employer became aware that employees were harassing co-workers and failed to take corrective action. A social media workplace harassment attorney can investigate whether your situation fits the criteria for legal action.

Steps for Employees Facing Social Media Harassment

Take the following steps if you believe you are the victim of work-related harassment through social media:

• Make copies of any harassing social media messages or posts you receive. Note the name of the accounts that send them. If you do not recognize the person who sent the message or post, try to see if they have a connection to a co-worker, such as a co-worker’s family member.
• Don’t respond to any harassing messages or posts. What starts as harassment may later be perceived as a dispute between co-workers if you engage with the person.
• Tell your supervisor or employer about any social media posts you suspect are from co-workers. Notify them immediately. Provide copies or screenshots of these messages or posts before they get deleted.

Finally, consult a Tennessee workplace harassment lawyer to discuss your legal options. You could be entitled to compensation or other forms of relief.

Contact a Social Media Workplace Harassment Lawyer Now

If you faced cyberbullying or other forms of social media harassment at work and your employer is not responding appropriately, you may have the right to file a complaint or lawsuit demanding accountability and compensation. Contact Employment and Commerce Law Group today for a free consultation with a hard-hitting workplace harassment attorney.