Privacy Act 1993 . See also the Office of the Privacy Commissioner . The Internet is a community which arises from the communications between its members. However, it is important to realise that some interactions may not be wanted by some of the people involved. Harassment consists of persisting in unwanted contact with another.
Most harassment involves deliberately hurtful or offensive communication.
Where it is directed at minority cultures or races, or is overtly sexual in nature, it may be illegal. All too often it arises comparatively innocently as a result of ignorance of the principles of good communications. Even polite but persistent interaction can be harassing. For example, constant inquiries after another's health may be innocuous in substance but, by virtue of the oft repeated and unwanted nature of the communication, it becomes harassment. The key to avoiding harassing others is to treat everyone with respect, to abide by the principles of netiquette and to be aware that we all need our own space.