The term online violence has to be understood as distinct from violence in all of violence’s most important characteristics. Online harassment is not good, and

The term online violence has to be understood as distinct from violence in all of violence’s most important characteristics. Online harassment is not good, and it certainly has a negative effect on its recipient, but violence is a special matter. Online harassment may lead to violence, but the former must not be made illegal unless it also comprises another crime, such as blackmail. The wedge being driven between free speech and an obfuscated idea of violence is incredibly disturbing.