Online defamation

In Switzerland, defamatory online statements may trigger criminal, civil and data-protection consequences. The assessment turns on the statement’s meaning, truth, value judgment versus factual allegation, public interest, intent and the affected person’s reputation. Remedies may include deletion, correction, damages, satisfaction and criminal complaint, subject to procedural deadlines. Platform operators, authors and users who share content may face different responsibilities. Because online publications cross borders easily, applicable law, jurisdiction and enforcement of takedown measures often require careful analysis.