A hate comment online: report it, get it deleted and identify the author

You do not have to accept insulting, hateful or threatening comments. Platforms are obliged to review and remove reported criminal content. In addition, you can demand under civil law that it stop and, in the case of criminal content, file a complaint.

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Your chances of getting your money back

Insult, threats and incitement to hatred are criminal offenses; content that harms your honor also violates your personality rights (§§ 823, 1004 BGB). You can demand deletion and that it stop.

Large platforms must promptly review and remove reported unlawful content. In the case of criminal content, the author's identity can also be determined through a procedure.

What you should do now

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1. Secure evidence
Make screenshots with URL, date, username and content before the comment disappears.
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2. Report the content
Report the comment via the platform's reporting function and demand its removal.
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3. Cease-and-desist / complaint
If the violation continues you can demand that it stop; in the case of criminal content, file a criminal complaint.
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4. Get support
Advice centers against hate online can help further and support you with documentation and the next steps.

How to spot the scam

The comment contains threats or calls to violence.
The platform does not respond to your report.
Several accounts are hating on you in a coordinated way.

Frequently asked questions

Does the platform have to delete a hate comment?

Large platforms must promptly review and remove reported criminal or obviously unlawful content. Insult, threats and incitement to hatred are criminal offenses; content that harms your honor also violates your personality rights.

Can I find out who is behind it?

In the case of criminal content, the author's identity can be determined through a criminal or a judicial disclosure procedure. To do this, secure the evidence and file a complaint if applicable.

What else can I do?

You can demand under civil law that it stop and, where there is harm, damages. Advice centers against hate online support you with documentation and how to proceed. What matters is securing evidence early.

Take action now

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.