Written defamation, also known as libel, occurs when false statements about a person or entity are published in a written format, causing harm to their reputation. This can include statements made in newspapers, online articles, or social media posts. To qualify as defamation, the statements must be untrue and presented as facts, not opinions. For a claim of written defamation to be valid, the affected party must prove that the statements were made with negligence or actual malice, depending on their status as a public or private figure. Remedies for written defamation may include monetary damages or retraction of the false statements.