Hate speech

What Is Inciting Insult?

An inciting insult refers to insulting, defaming, or degrading people, including on the basis of their origin, religion, worldview, disability, or sexuality.

How Can You Take Action Against Inciting Insults Online?

First of all, you should not spread the content any further and should report it directly to the platform. Under the Network Enforcement Act (NetzDG), platforms were required to remove clearly illegal content within 24 hours.

There are also external reporting services, such as youth protection services or Meldestelle REspect. In addition to reporting the content on the platform itself, it can be useful to contact one of these external services to increase the chances of having the content removed or, in serious cases, to enable criminal prosecution.

If you want to file a criminal complaint yourself, you can do so online with the police or, in particularly serious cases, with the public prosecutor’s office.

How Is Inciting Insult Punished?

Inciting insult can be punished with a fine or a prison sentence of up to two years.