Statutory Torts

A statutory tort is a civil wrong created by legislation that, if committed, gives victims the right to seek remedies in court, such as compensation. If you are a victim of:

• Intimate image abuse

• Image-based child abuse

• Doxxing

• Online harassment

• Online stalking

you may be able to sue those responsible for such harm.

Making a report to the OSC and taking legal action in court are separate processes. You do not have to make a report to the OSC before taking action in court. However, reporting to the OSC may help stop the harm more quickly. 

Can I take legal action if I do not know who is harming me online?

If you do not know who has harmed you, the OSC may be able to help. You can apply to the OSC for End-User Identity (EUI) information, which may help you identify the person behind an anonymous account that caused you harm. If the OSC has identity information or contact details linked to the anonymous account, the information may be shared with you so that you can take legal action.