Turkish Penal Code Article 125: insult
Article 125 makes it a crime in Turkey to attack someone's honour and dignity by alleging a concrete act or fact, or by swearing; insult online is public and attracts a heavier penalty.
Elements
Alleging a concrete act or fact capable of harming a person's honour, dignity and reputation, or swearing at them. The penalty is three months to two years' imprisonment or a judicial fine. Insult in the victim's absence requires communication to at least three people.
Online
Posts on social media, forums or news sites are public, so the aggravation for publicity applies. Insulting a public official because of their duties is further aggravated.
Complaint
Insult is generally prosecuted only on complaint, which must be filed within six months of learning of the act and the offender. Collect evidence early.
Content removal
A criminal case does not remove content by itself; platform reports, personality rights requests and court orders are still needed.
General information, not legal advice. In real cases we work alongside lawyers who specialise in digital rights.
Frequently asked questions
What if the insult comes from an anonymous account?
A complaint can be filed against an unknown person; platforms disclose user data only to authorities.