Spreading rumors about a cosplayer may seem harmless to some internet users, but this time things could end up in court. Popular Japanese cosplayer Chamomile denied accusations of alleged private dates for money and, instead of letting the matter pass, filed a criminal complaint against the person she holds responsible for starting the rumors.

According to her agency’s version, the accusations were invented by a woman who allegedly acted out of personal resentment. Chamomile’s representation maintains that the information shared on social media is false and that its dissemination has harmed the content creator’s reputation. For now, these claims reflect the cosplayer’s and her team’s stance, with no judicial resolution announced for the conflict.

However, legal actions are not only directed at the person identified as responsible for starting the controversy. The agency also decided to investigate those who helped spread the posts, even if they weren’t the original authors.

Even sharing rumors with emojis could have consequences

According to information released by her representation, procedures have been initiated to identify approximately 60 accounts that allegedly contributed to spreading the accusations. The review includes posts that used specific keywords and even emojis to reference the case, meaning the investigation won’t be limited to messages that directly mentioned Chamomile.

That said, the agency also offered an alternative before considering individual lawsuits. Those responsible for the flagged posts could request a settlement via a written apology and payment of 110,000 yen, equivalent to about $696, according to the figure released. This is a private reconciliation proposal, not a fine imposed by authorities.

The situation has drawn attention for the scope of the measures announced. While someone who didn’t invent a rumor could still face legal issues for sharing or contributing to its spread, depending on the content and circumstances. However, this doesn’t mean using an emoji or commenting on a controversy automatically constitutes a crime.

For now, it hasn’t been reported how many of the flagged accounts have been identified, if anyone accepted the financial settlement, or if additional lawsuits will be filed. Chamomile and her representation continue to reject the accusations and aim to prevent them from circulating as if they were proven facts.

Do you think those who share unverified rumors should face the same consequences as the person who invented them, or is there a significant difference between the two responsibilities?