Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying is the use of electronic communication, such as social media, messaging or email, to harass, threaten, humiliate or intimidate someone. It is not itself a defined legal offence in Canada. Depending on the conduct, it may give rise to criminal charges, civil claims such as defamation, workplace obligations, or remedies for sharing intimate images.

How BC law treats it

There is no Criminal Code offence called cyberbullying, but specific conduct may be criminal, such as criminal harassment (s. 264), uttering threats (s. 264.1) or distributing intimate images without consent (s. 162.1). BC's Intimate Images Protection Act, SBC 2023, c 11 provides remedies for intimate image distribution, and workplace bullying is addressed through WorkSafeBC policy under the Workers Compensation Act.

What it means for your business

Employers must take reasonable steps to prevent and respond to workplace bullying and harassment, including online conduct between workers.

Risks and common mistakes

Ignoring complaints about online harassment between employees can lead to WorkSafeBC orders and claims against the employer.

Fulcrum's privacy lawyers can help with these issues.

General information about British Columbia and Canadian law, current to October 2026. It is not legal advice.