Email threats and the law

Email threats can be a serious violation of the law and can have severe consequences. Here are some key points to consider:

What constitutes an email threat?

An email threat is any communication that is intended to intimidate, harass, or threaten someone. This can include:

• Threats of physical harm or violence
• Threats of property damage or destruction
• Threats of financial harm or economic loss
• Threats of reputational harm or damage to one's professional or personal reputation
• Threats of retaliation or harm to oneself or others

Is an email threat illegal?

Yes, an email threat can be illegal. In the United States, for example, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has rules against making threats over the phone or internet, including via email. Additionally, many states have laws that specifically prohibit making threats via email or other forms of electronic communication.

What are the consequences of sending an email threat?

The consequences of sending an email threat can be severe and can include:

• Criminal charges, including felony charges
• Fines and penalties
• Imprisonment
• Civil lawsuits and damages
• Loss of employment or reputation
• Restraining orders or protective orders

How can I report an email threat?

If you receive an email threat, you should report it to the appropriate authorities immediately. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Save the email: Save the email and any relevant evidence, such as screenshots or printouts.
2. Contact the authorities: Contact your local police department or the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) to report the threat.
3. Contact your employer or school: If the threat was made in a work or school setting, contact your employer or school administration to report the threat.
4. Contact a lawyer: Consider consulting with a lawyer to understand your legal options and to take further action.

What can I do to protect myself from email threats?

To protect yourself from email threats, you can take the following steps:

1. Be cautious with your email address: Avoid sharing your email address publicly or with strangers.
2. Use strong passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for your email account and other online accounts.
3. Monitor your email: Regularly monitor your email account for suspicious activity or threatening messages.
4. Report threats: Report any threatening emails to the authorities immediately.
5. Consider security software: Consider using security software, such as spam filters or antivirus software, to help protect your email account.

Additional resources:

• Federal Communications Commission (FCC): www.fcc.gov
• FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): www.ic3.gov
• National Center for Victims of Crime: www.victimsofcrime.org

Remember, email threats are serious and can have severe consequences. If you receive an email threat, report it to the authorities immediately and take steps to protect yourself.