In a digital world where anonymity provides a sense of security, it’s easy to believe we are safe from legal consequences. However, online actions have real impacts and are also subject to laws.

Criminal liability

In Canada, individuals can be prosecuted under the Criminal Code from the age of 12. Several criminal offenses can be committed in relation to the misuse of social media.

These offenses do not only apply to actions taken by adults towards minors. A person aged 12 to 17 can also be arrested if they commit one of these offenses under the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA).

Any victim of a criminal offense has the right to file a complaint with the police for free, and the penalties for the offenses mentioned can vary depending on the severity of the offense and the circumstances surrounding its commission. They can include fines, probation orders, communication bans with the victim, or even imprisonment in severe cases or for individuals with prior criminal records.

Criminal record

Beyond the sentence imposed by the judge upon conviction, the person will now have a criminal record. This will have consequences on both personal and professional levels, such as:

  • Difficulties in job hunting: Many employers require a criminal background check during the recruitment process. For certain professions or jobs, such as in health, security, or education, employees cannot have a criminal record.
  • Educational limitations: Some educational programs, particularly those leading to certain careers like law, medicine, and teaching, require a clean criminal record.
  • Travel and visa limitations: Many countries require a declaration of criminal records for entry. A criminal record could prevent someone from traveling to these countries.

Civil liability

Civil liability is a legal obligation to compensate another person for damages or harm caused by our actions, negligence, or something we are responsible for. From the age of 7, a child can be sued in civil court. In relation to social media, they could be sued for defamation if, through writings, words, gestures, or images, they harm someone else’s reputation.

To undertake a civil liability action against someone, it is necessary to first consider other means to resolve the issue, such as mediation or a formal notice. If these fail, a civil case must be opened by the concerned person, with or without the help of a lawyer. When a child is ordered to pay an amount in a civil lawsuit, their parents or legal guardian will bear the cost.

Raising awareness

Monitoring children’s online activities is of great importance. In a world where laws also apply to the virtual, it is essential to educate children about the legal consequences of their actions on the Internet. By raising their awareness towards respectful and responsible online behavior, they can navigate safely and avoid trouble.

Resources for parents

Tel-jeunes Parents is there for you! To listen, to reflect on your situation, or to make known the services and resources available for your teen.