Does General Liability Cover Libel or Slander?

Libel generally refers to a defamatory statement in written or recorded form, while slander generally refers to a spoken statement; legal definitions vary by jurisdiction. Triple-I lists both as examples of personal and advertising injury. The ISO specimen defines the coverage through specified oral or written publication offenses, so the alleged communication must fit the policy language. Exclusions can apply based on knowledge of falsity, when the material was first published, or the insured’s business activity.

Check the exact wording, publication date, who made the statement, and whether the policy treats the conduct as an insured offense. Review the defense obligation, limits, territory, and media-business exclusion. If your business publishes or broadcasts content, ask whether a separate media liability policy provides broader terms. The everyday labels “libel” and “slander” do not replace review of the claim and issued form.