Individuals who are called derogatory names in social networking sites may either block the user or file an abuse form. In the case of Emmy award-winning actor James Woods, seeking redress for being called a "cocaine addict" on Twitter amounts to $10 million.
The 68-year-old actor, noted for portraying interesting characters on television and the big screen, filed the complaint for defamation and invasion of privacy against a Twitter user who went by the name Abe List, E! News reported.
The defendant had called the actor other disparaging names, including "ridiculous scum clown-boy," in the past.
Woods, who has also supported philanthropic causes, believed the accusation has cast him in a highly offensive and outrageous light. Woods denied ever being a cocaine user.
In his official complaint, the "Salvador" and "Jobs" actor admonished the reckless conduct that he said has tarnished his good name and reputation on a global scale Woods added that the Twitter user as well as other people using social media, should be mindful of the repercussions of propagating lies and causing untold distress and harm, The Hollywood Reporter reported.
Woods, who has been tweeting comments on a variety of topics ranging from pets to Barack Obama issues, will now have to prove actual malice of the Twitter user.
The @abelisted Twitter account has been taken down; it previously had over 2,270 followers. The defendant's Twitter description included the phrase "math dork in finance and partner in (private) equity" plus the quote, "Freedom is not needing to be liked."