This page documents an official English Wikipedia policy, a widely accepted standard that should normally be followed by all editors. Any edit to this page should reflect consensus. If in doubt, consider discussing changes on the talk page.

Shortcut: WP:LIBEL

The goal of Wikipedia is to create an encyclopedic information source adhering to a neutral point of view, with all information being referenced through the citation of reliable published sources, so as to maintain a standard of verifiability.

For this reason, all contributors should recognize that it is their responsibility to ensure that material posted on Wikipedia is not defamatory.

It is Wikipedia policy to delete libellous material when it has been identified.

Subject guidelines

If you believe that you are the subject of a libellous statement on Wikipedia, please:

• E-mail us with details of the article and error.

See also

• Wikipedia:Contact us
• Wikipedia:No legal threats
• Slander and libel
• Wikipedia:Biographies of living persons
• Wikipedia does not give legal advice

External links

• How to avoid libel and defamation (2004)—Information from the BBC for contributors to its defunct community website, Action Network, based on the English law of libel, which differs considerably from U.S. law.
• Once it's on the Web, whose law applies?
• Internet policy - Jurisdiction
• Defamation law in Ireland
• "Is Wikipedia safe from libel liability?" by Daniel Terdiman (from CNET)
• Libel on the Internet: An International Problem
• Defamation FAQ at Chilling Effects Clearinghouse