What The Cardi B & Tasha K Lawsuit Should Teach Bloggers & Journalists

 

It was reported last January 25, 2022, that the courts have awarded hit rapper Cardi B an astounding $4 million in estimated damages to be paid by YouTube celebrity blogger Latasha Kebe — popularly known as Tasha K in order to settle a defamation lawsuit that has been legally filed by Cardi against the YouTuber since 2019. It can be recalled that Tasha K went on a controversial tirade against Cardi B — reporting slanderous news about the ‘WAP’ singer which has since been proven to be false. According to reports from Rolling Stone, Tasha K has uploaded an estimated 38 videos which were filled with numerous allegations against Cardi B such as claiming that the rapper once worked as a prostitute, used illegal drugs, and will be giving birth to a child with disabilities.

Not giving up the fight, Tasha K aired her sentiments on her UnWineWithTashaK YouTube channel, playing the victim in the legal battle which was evidently started by none other than herself. Ranting in the efforts of winning supporters over to her side, Tasha K said on the video, “This is not defamation or invasion of privacy when these machines have pushed this lifestyle on us for profit”, she then went on to make a bold statement at the end of the video, saying, “I know y’all maybe think this is over, but no this is just the beginning”.

This messy legal battle between Cardi B and Tasha K serves as a clear warning to bloggers and journalists to be extra careful in making reports and statements about anything — whether it’s a social issue or directed towards a particular personality, it’s important to diligently check sources. Fake news can be weaponized by anyone and when in the hands of people with a huge following, the damages that result from spreading misinformation are disastrous. It is not an exaggeration to say that lives have been ruined simply because journalists have failed to fact-check their references — and the million-dollar settlement that Tasha K will soon have to settle is a stark reminder of the gravity of not thinking before clicking.

By Neil Gregorio

Neil Gregorio is a graduating university student who writes as a hobby; when he is away from the keyboard, he spends his time watching Japanese animated shows and jamming out to his favorite rock music.

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