The role of forensic linguistics in investigating and disclosing language crimes on social media platforms

Ntelu, Asna, Yusuf, Mirna, Hinta, Ellyana, Muassomah, Muassomah ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0177-8896 and Musa, Dahniar Th. (2025) The role of forensic linguistics in investigating and disclosing language crimes on social media platforms. Theory and Practice in Language Studies, 15 (1). pp. 283-293. ISSN 1799-2591

Text 23266.pdf - Published Version Download (1MB)

Abstract

The proliferation of crimes on social media platforms presents an increasingly complex challenge for society, demanding rigorous analysis and innovative solutions. This paper examines the potential of forensic linguistics in investigating and uncovering language crimes on social media. It explores how forensic linguistic approaches can systematically analyze the linguistic structures—from words to discourses—that constitute criminal communication in digital spaces. Through qualitative research employing document analysis, observation, and note-taking techniques on social media content, five distinct patterns of criminal
language use were identified: (1) body shaming, involving insults directed at physical appearance; (2) defamation and libel against individuals and groups; (3) hate speech; (4) threats targeting specific parties or groups; and (5) incitement through the dissemination of false information about interlocutors. These patterns provide valuable insights into crimes that often elude conventional investigative methods. The study demonstrates that forensic linguistic approaches offer promising avenues for case resolution, providing
government agencies and relevant institutions with effective tools to address the challenges posed by language
crimes on social media platforms. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on digital
criminology and highlights the critical role of linguistic analysis in navigating the complexities of online
criminal behavior

Item Type:	Journal Article
Keywords:	forensic linguistics; language crimes; social media subject
Subjects:	20 LANGUAGE, COMMUNICATION AND CULTURE > 2099 Other Language, Communication and Culture > 209999 Language, Communication and Culture not elsewhere classified
Divisions:	Faculty of Humanities > Department of Arabic Language and Letters
Depositing User:	Muassomah Muassomah
Date Deposited:	06 Feb 2025 10:11

Downloads

Origin of downloads

Actions (login required)

View Item