Canadian Health Information Management Association Practice Exam

Defaming another person in writing is known as:

1. Fraud.

2. Invasion of privacy.

3. Libel.

4. Slander.

The correct answer is: Libel.

Defaming another person in writing is referred to as libel. This is a legal term that specifically addresses written statements that can harm an individual's reputation. Libel is part of the broader category of defamation, which encompasses both written and verbal forms. In the context of defamation, libel involves making false statements in a permanent medium, such as print or online publications, which can be damaging to someone's character or standing in the community. The key aspect that distinguishes libel from other forms of defamation is that it is expressed in a written format, thus making it more permanent and often more damaging due to its potential for wider dissemination. In contrast, defamation executed through spoken words is classified as slander. Fraud pertains to deceitful practices intended to secure unfair or unlawful gain, and invasion of privacy involves various violations of an individual’s private life, which do not specifically revolve around the falsification of a person’s character in written form. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for recognizing the nuances in legal terminology associated with defamation.