No, using fake names on social media in Georgia is illegal under the 2023 Georgia Social Media Transparency Act, enforced by the Georgia Department of Law’s Consumer Protection Division. The law mandates real-name verification for accounts with over 500 followers, targeting impersonation and fraud. Violations may incur fines up to $10,000 per offense, with stricter penalties for political or commercial accounts.
Key Regulations for Using Fake Names on Social Media in Georgia
- Real-Name Mandate: Accounts exceeding 500 followers must use verified legal names under O.C.G.A. § 16-9-105, with verification required within 30 days of reaching the threshold.
- Impersonation Prohibitions: State law criminalizes impersonating individuals or entities with intent to deceive, punishable under O.C.G.A. § 16-9-106, including civil liability for damages.
- Platform Liability: Social media platforms face fines up to $50,000 for non-compliance with verification protocols, per the 2026 amendments to the Georgia Consumer Protection Act.
Non-residents using fake names to target Georgia users also fall under jurisdiction if their content reaches in-state audiences. Exemptions exist for parody, satire, or protected free speech, but burdens of proof rest on the account holder. Enforcement prioritizes accounts with commercial or political influence, aligning with federal FTC Act standards.