The rise of social media has undoubtedly fuelled an uptick in defamation cases in recent years. With the widespread belief that the digital realm offers a cloak of anonymity and impunity, many individuals have taken to platforms to express their opinions and grievances, often without considering the potential legal consequences of their words. Not too long ago, Bonang Matheba pursued legal action against South African podcaster Rea Gopane, accusing him of online defamation. Remarkably, she emerged victorious in her lawsuit, resulting in Gopane being mandated to pay her a substantial sum of R300,000 as restitution for tarnishing her reputation. Equally pertinent is the recent conviction of author Jackie Phamotse, who was found guilty of various charges, including defamation crimen injuria. These prominent cases underscore the mounting prevalence of online defamation. Legal analyst and Managing Director of Zikalala Attorneys Mpumelelo Zikalala joins Lerato Mbele for the conversation.