What is defined as harassment under section 10(1) of the 1997 Act?

Harassment under section 10(1) of the 1997 Act specifically pertains to actions that involve using a telephone or other forms of communication with the intent to annoy, alarm, or distress another person. This section aims to protect individuals from persistent unwanted communications that can cause emotional or psychological distress, facilitating the understanding of what constitutes harassment in the context of communication.

By highlighting the focus on communication, particularly through phone calls or messages intended to disturb someone, the law effectively addresses behaviors that may not necessarily involve physical presence or threats of violence but can still have a significant impact on a person's mental well-being. Therefore, the core aspect of the definition is centered on the misuse of communication channels to create discomfort for others.