Question from a reader:
I wrote negative comments about a company on the internet, but even though I tried to delete them, they won’t go away, and I consulted a lawyer. Since then, I’ve been anxious that I might have been reported. If I had been reported, I think the company would notice and sue me, but it has been two
years and nothing has happened. Does this mean I have not been reported?
Background and Situation Analysis
When considering the answer to the reader’s question, the first important point is to understand the influence and legal risks of statements made on the internet. In particular, negative comments or critical opinions about companies can sometimes lead to legal issues. The background of this question seems to be influenced by the content posted online two years ago. First, let’s organize your experiences and concerns. It’s important to consider the context in which you expressed your opinion when you made the post, as well as how specific that content was. On the highly anonymous internet, individual opinions can easily spread, but they also come with responsibilities. Negative comments about companies can potentially violate laws such as defamation or unfair competition prevention laws.
Legal Perspective Consideration
Now that two years have passed without any lawsuits, this can be a source of reassurance, but it does not necessarily mean that you have not been reported. There are several reasons why a company might not take legal action. 1. Company Resources: Some companies may choose to ignore negative comments because they have limited resources for legal responses. This is especially true for small businesses or startups, where prioritizing time and money for other important operations may take precedence. 2. Social Impact: Companies may fear that reacting to specific comments could inadvertently draw more attention to those comments. With the development of social media and media, there is a risk that one statement can spread instantly, leading to a choice of silence. 3. Assessment of Legal Risks: If your comments are judged not to have caused substantial damage to the company, it may be considered that there is little benefit to taking legal action.
Impact of Online Statements
Let’s consider how statements made on the internet can affect companies and individuals. Particularly in the entertainment industry, it is important to deepen our understanding of how criticism and opinions are received and resonate. 1. Power of Word of Mouth: Modern consumers tend to place great importance on word-of-mouth about companies and products. Therefore, the spread of negative comments can potentially impact the brand image of that company. 2. Impact of Social Media: On social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram, individual statements can spread instantly, and it is not uncommon for what was said to be interpreted in an exaggerated way. In some cases, specific opinions can become “trending,” forcing companies to respond. 3. Characteristics of the Entertainment Industry: In the entertainment industry, the image and publicity of talents are extremely important. The spread of critical opinions can impact the activities of talents and related parties. For example, if a particular actor’s work receives criticism, it may affect that actor’s next project, and in some cases, casting may change.
International Comparison and Industry Trends
From an international perspective, there are differences between Japan and the United States regarding legal regulations and cultural perceptions of statements made online. In the U.S., freedom of expression is strongly protected, but there are also many defamation lawsuits. On the other hand, in Japan, companies often react sensitively to statements and taking legal action is common. For instance, in the American entertainment industry, there are cases where criticism on social media is turned into a marketing opportunity. When a movie is released and receives criticism, promotions that leverage that criticism may be conducted, creating buzz instead.
Implications for the Industry and Future Outlook
In this way, the impact of statements made on the internet on companies and individuals is diverse. In the future, a demand for greater transparency is likely to emerge. With the evolution of social media, companies will need to strengthen communication with consumers and fans and seek ways to build trust. Moreover, in the entertainment industry, actively incorporating fans’ voices will be key to success. Companies and talents are expected to value dialogue with fans and sincerely address critical opinions.
Practical Advice
Finally, here are some practical pieces of advice on how you should act moving forward. 1. Review Your Statements: Consider how your statements might be received. It is important to check whether they contain content that could harm the reputation of companies or others. 2. Gather Information: If you are worried about legal issues, it is advisable to consult a lawyer. Deepening your legal knowledge regarding statements made on the internet can lead to risk avoidance in the future. 3. Dialogue with Fans and Followers: It is important to express your opinions and feelings candidly through social media and blogs, but also listen to the reactions of fans and followers. By accepting their voices, you can build better relationships. 4. Share Positive Messages: Strive to move away from negative statements and focus on sharing positive content, which can enhance your own brand. Aim to communicate with humor and entertainment value.
Conclusion
Considering the influence of statements made on the internet and their legal risks is particularly important in the entertainment industry. How the content you expressed two years ago has evolved and how you perceive its impact will influence your future actions. While there is a sense of reassurance, it is essential to always take responsibility for your statements and strive to build better relationships. Please feel free to share your experiences and opinions. Additionally, I would appreciate it if you could let me know what you would like to learn about in the future.
