Publishing false information with the intent to harm a person's reputation is called?

The term that refers to publishing false information with the intent to harm a person's reputation is libel. Libel specifically pertains to defamation that occurs in written or published form, such as in books, newspapers, or online platforms. The key element here is the publication of the false information, which distinguishes it from other forms of defamation, such as slander, which involves spoken statements.

Libel is actionable as a civil wrong, meaning that the harmed party can seek legal recourse for damages incurred due to the false statements. To win a libel case, the plaintiff typically must prove that the statement was false, damaging, and made with a degree of fault regarding the truthfulness — often requiring proof of negligence or actual malice, especially if the plaintiff is a public figure.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for grasping how various forms of defamation are categorized and treated under the law.