Should people who commit cyberbullying face criminal charges if their actions lead to serious harm or even the death of their victim?

The question of whether cyberbullying that causes severe harm or even the death of a victim should be treated as a criminal offense highlights the intersection of digital behavior, legal responsibility, and mental health. Cyberbullying refers to harassment, threats, or humiliation carried out online through social media, messaging apps, or other digital platforms. Unlike traditional bullying, it can be constant, anonymous, and reach wide audiences instantly, intensifying its psychological effects. The debate centers on whether harmful online actions should be punished under criminal law when they directly contribute to outcomes such as depression, self-harm, or suicide. Some argue that cyberbullying is comparable to harassment, stalking, or other crimes already recognized by law, and should therefore carry similar legal consequences. Others raise concerns about freedom of expression, proving direct causation between online actions and tragic outcomes, and the possibility of overly harsh penalties for behavior that may begin in immaturity rather than intent to harm. Historically, legal systems have struggled to keep pace with digital realities. Laws against defamation, harassment, or incitement were designed before the internet age. High-profile cases involving teens and young adults have drawn public attention to the devastating consequences of online abuse, fueling calls for reform.