Blog

How to preserve Instagram account data and request disclosure before it’s too late

When false allegations are sent from an anonymous social media account, the damage can be instant and irreversible. In this case study, our client, Adam (not his real name), faced a devastating smear campaign on Instagram that led to the breakdown of his long-term relationship, and how missing a short deadline for Instagram account deletion meant the opportunity to unmask the person responsible was lost.

Unique features of defamation on social media

If someone has posted false or harmful statements about you online, you may be facing social media defamation. This can damage your reputation, impact your personal and professional life, and leave you feeling powerless. However, you do have options. Understanding what defamation is and how to respond can help you take the right steps to protect yourself and your reputation.

How we helped a small farm shop defend its reputation

Many small business owners will recognise the sinking feeling that comes when a single disgruntled customer, even after attempts have been made to address their concerns, launches into an online campaign to destroy a reputation built over many years and thousands of hours of hard labour. This was exactly what happened to our client in this case study. We share how we helped the owners of a rural farm shop stop a campaign of fake reviews and defamatory posts, protect their reputation, and regain control.

How a social media post caused a professional nightmare

Our client, a dentist working in Manchester, contacted us after his life was turned upside down by a single moment and an even faster-moving online backlash. One misunderstood comment outside a nightclub, followed by an Instagram story accusing him of harassment, snowballed into a near reputational ruin only spared by his fast response and prompt legal advice he sought. This case centres around one critical theme: how defamation via social media, even without formal charges or evidence, can destroy a career and future prospects.

How our client fought back and got defamatory reviews removed from Trustpilot

Imagine spending years building a trusted brand, only to find your company accused of being a scam online. That’s exactly what happened to one UK home and garden retailer, who found themselves under attack on Trustpilot.

Dozens of anonymous reviews claimed fraud, dishonesty and worse, none of it true. The platform refused to help. Here’s how we helped restore their online reputation, got the worst reviews removed, and forced Trustpilot to give back control.

UK first injunction served via Instagram

On 5 June 2015 defamation lawyer, Yair Cohen had made a bit of a history by having obtained permission to serve the first harassment/defamation injunction on an anonymous internet troll via Instagram. Yair represented the Claimant in the case of DDF v YYZ before HHJ Nicol J at the High Court.

Legal help for businesses facing fake and defamatory online reviews

Every day, businesses across the UK are targeted by fake and damaging online reviews. These attacks are often malicious, sometimes even planted by competitors, and they can quickly ruin reputations built over years—if not decades. At our firm, we specialise in helping business owners not only remove these harmful reviews but also restore their good name. Here's how we helped one client fight back and reclaim control over their business identity.

Defamation against children is a growing problem for parents

Child defamation, whether through playground gossip, after-school rumours, or false accusations on social media, is becoming an increasingly difficult issue to manage. These false claims can have devastating effects on children and their families, leaving them feeling isolated, frustrated, and unsure of where to turn for support.

If you consider bringing a claim for defamation, you must read this guide first

When it comes to defamation, there are a lot of grey areas. And with social media, it can be hard to know where to draw the line. If you're thinking about bringing a claim for defamation, there are a few things you should consider.

Case Study: What to do if you face defamation on X (Twitter) by someone from the US

This Twitter defamation case study delves into our strategic approach to an international online defamation case, where our client faced serious false allegations on Twitter. Despite various jurisdictional and legal challenges, our team effectively mitigated the defamation, safeguarding our client's reputation.

How to avoid legal pitfalls when taking legal action for defamation

Before filing a defamation claim, there are many reasons why one must consult a defamation lawyer. These eight reasons are some of the top reasons why it is in everyone’s best interest to consult a lawyer prior to filing a defamation claim.

What happens when fake news targets your family? Here's how to fight back

Imagine discovering a deeply disturbing fake news article online falsely accusing you of endangering your child. This was the painful reality our client faced when a fabricated story involving him, his daughter, and their pet python went viral.

What to do if when you are defamed on YouTube

If you’ve been targeted by defamation on YouTube, there are legal ways to take action, ways that actually work if handled properly. At Cohen Davis, we specialise in this kind of work. We want you to understand what’s possible and how the law can help. 

How much can you claim for defamation of character

If you’re considering bringing a defamation case in the UK, it’s crucial to have an idea of the potential payout you might receive. Defamation claims are designed to compensate you for the harm caused to your reputation, but the amount you can be awarded varies depending on several factors. So, what’s the average payout for defamation of character in the UK, and how is it determined?

I found my name is associated with pornography, what can I do?

Discovering your name linked to pornographic content can feel overwhelming and deeply distressing, especially when you have never consented to or participated in such material. You are not powerless. In this case study, we share how one of our clients faced the same situation and how we were able to help her remove the damaging associations and reclaim her online reputation.

What to do if you’ve been defamed by a newspaper article

Being defamed by a newspaper article can be deeply upsetting. Whether the article was in print or appeared online, false and harmful statements can cause lasting damage to your reputation, relationships and livelihood. It’s not just about hurt feelings—reputational harm can have very real consequences. If you’re facing this kind of situation, understanding your legal rights and the steps you can take is essential.

I’ve been defamed on X – here’s what you need to know

Being defamed on Twitter — now called X — can feel overwhelming. One moment, everything is fine. The next, your name or your business is being dragged through the mud in a viral post. X moves fast, and the impact can hit hard and spread quickly. Whether you're a public figure, business owner, or private individual, the effects of defamation on this platform can be long-lasting and deeply personal. If you're facing this situation, you're not alone. There are clear steps you can take to protect your name and your future.

How to identify anonymous fake Google reviews and stop online harassment

Online defamation and harassment can tear through reputations and businesses — especially when it comes from people you once trusted. This is the story of how we supported a couple who were subjected to a calculated, malicious online campaign and how we used the law to fight back.

How we stopped a campaign of online defamation and harassment against a charity worker

In this case study, we reveal how our legal team put a stop to a Facebook smear campaign targeting a pair of community leaders. It illustrates what victims of online defamation, harassment and malicious falsehood can do to regain control and protect their reputations.