Libel is a form of defamation that involves making false statements about a person or organization in written or published form. These statements can harm the reputation of the individual or entity, leading to potential legal consequences. To qualify as libel, the statement must be untrue, damaging, and presented as a fact rather than an opinion. In many legal systems, the person who believes they have been libeled can file a lawsuit against the publisher of the false information. Defenses against libel claims may include proving the truth of the statement or showing that it was an opinion rather than a factual assertion.