Cyberbullying refers to repeatedly or persistently insulting, exposing, threatening, or deliberately excluding a person via digital media. It takes place, for example, on social networks, in messenger groups, comment sections, or forums. Due to the rapid spread and permanent availability of content, attacks can reach a large audience and burden those affected in the long term.
Typical forms include hurtful messages, spreading rumors, fake profiles, or publishing private or degrading images and videos. Body shaming can also be part of cyberbullying. Even a single post can have a lasting effect if it is repeatedly shared, commented on, or republished.
Influencers and models can become targets because of their public presence. At the same time, as role models, they have the opportunity to promote respectful interaction in their communities: through clear communication rules, consistent moderation, and the conscious decision not to publicly expose other people or mobilize followers against them.
Legally, cyberbullying is not a separate criminal offense in Germany. Individual acts can, however, be punishable, for example as insult (Beleidigung, Section 185 StGB), defamation (üble Nachrede, Section 186 StGB), malicious defamation (Verleumdung, Section 187 StGB) or threat (Bedrohung, Section 241 StGB). In the case of unauthorized distribution of certain images, the right to one’s own image and criminal law provisions protecting one’s personal sphere of life may also be affected. Which provisions apply depends on the specific circumstances of the individual case.
In addition to criminal prosecution, those affected may have civil law claims for the removal of infringing content, injunctive relief, and, where applicable, damages. In urgent cases, a preliminary injunction (einstweilige Verfügung) may be considered in order to stop further violations at short notice. The requirements and the appropriate course of action should be reviewed by a lawyer.
In cases of cyberbullying, evidence should be secured, for example through screenshots with the date, account names, links, and the recognizable context of the conversation. Content can then be reported and accounts blocked. For potentially criminal acts, a report to the police or public prosecutor’s office is an option. For offenses such as insult, a criminal complaint (Strafantrag) is generally also required; a deadline of three months from knowledge of the act and the perpetrator usually applies. Your own agency, trusted persons, or specialized counseling centers can provide support with the first steps.
As a model, your photos are publicly visible on agency websites, in campaigns and on social media, which can make you a target. Let your agency know if you're being attacked so they can support you and protect images if needed. As an influencer, your reach puts you especially in the spotlight, so use comment filters, restricting and blocking consistently and don't respond publicly to attacks. Your mental health comes first, so get help if it's weighing on you.
See also: Body shaming, Follower, Right to one’s own image (KUG).
