Question from a reader:
Please tell me about the criteria for disclosing IP addresses on X. I heard that it can be easily disclosed through a lawyer, but is there a possibility that posts that do not fall under defamation or slander could also be disclosed? If anyone knows the specifics about the extent of IP disclosure on X, please let
me know.

Considering the Criteria for IP Address Disclosure on X

Recently, with the spread of social media and online platforms, I have been thinking more about how influential our statements can be and how they can lead to legal issues. In particular, issues related to defamation and slander on X (formerly Twitter) have significant impacts not only on our daily lives but also on business and privacy. Today, I would like to examine the criteria for IP address disclosure on X from a legal perspective.

Background of IP Address Disclosure

First, let’s understand what an IP address is. An IP address is like a “home address” for devices on the internet, assigned when a specific device connects to the internet. This allows for the identification of specific users. However, regardless of the content of the statements, there is a need to understand how that IP address is treated from a legal standpoint. Recently, a friend of mine reported a malicious post about his business to X through a lawyer. He was told, “If you have a lawyer, it’s easy to disclose the IP address,” but I was curious about what the actual process is.

Definitions of Defamation and Slander

First, let’s reaffirm what defamation and slander are. Defamation is the act of publicly stating facts that damage another person’s reputation. On the other hand, slander refers to making unfounded insults or accusations. Whether a statement on X falls under these categories depends on the specific content and context. For example, if someone says, “Mr. XX is a fraud,” and that is not based on fact, it could potentially be considered defamation. However, if that post is merely an emotional statement, it may not pose a legal issue. Thus, judgments can vary depending on the specific case.

Criteria for IP Address Disclosure on X

Now, let’s consider the criteria under which X would disclose an IP address. Generally, social media platforms prioritize user privacy and will not disclose IP addresses unless there is a legal basis such as defamation or slander. However, in practice, there is a possibility that X could disclose IP addresses even for posts that do not fall under defamation or slander. For instance, if a specific user engages in repeated harassment, it may be determined that they are violating X’s terms of service. In this case, the user could be identified, and their IP address may be disclosed. In my friend’s case, it is also true that when applying through a lawyer, specific evidence is required. The lawyer must explain why the disclosure of that IP address is necessary when proceeding with the process.

Specific Process for IP Disclosure Through a Lawyer

Let’s look at the process of requesting IP address disclosure through a lawyer. 1. Legal Consultation: First, consult with a lawyer and explain the specific case. The lawyer will determine whether the statement qualifies as defamation or slander. 2. Evidence Collection: Next, collect screenshots of the statements and other evidence. Without this, the disclosure request is likely to be rejected. 3. Disclosure Request Procedure: The lawyer will submit a disclosure request to X. At this stage, it is necessary to explain in detail the legal basis for the request. 4. X’s Judgment: After receiving the request, X will make a judgment based on the law. If it is determined to be defamation or slander, the IP address may be disclosed. 5. Response After Disclosure: After the IP address is disclosed, it is necessary to consider how to respond. This may allow for further legal action to be taken.

Risks and Precautions of Disclosure

Such procedures come with several risks. First, disclosing the IP address could lead to the identification of the other party, potentially escalating to further trouble. Additionally, if the disclosure request is denied, the lawyer’s fees may be wasted. Moreover, if the case does not qualify as defamation or slander, there is a risk of being sued in return. Therefore, it is crucial to exercise utmost caution in statements and to avoid becoming overly emotional.

Conclusion

In this way, the criteria for IP address disclosure on X are complex, but whether defamation or slander is involved is a key point. Additionally, when seeking disclosure through a lawyer, it is essential to gather specific evidence and clarify the legal basis. Statements on social media can sometimes lead to unexpected troubles. We need to consider the impact of our statements and act cautiously. While it is important to express our opinions, we must always be aware of how they may affect others. Finally, if you feel uneasy about your statements on social media, I recommend consulting with a professional. Having legal knowledge is very important to protect yourself.