Nowadays, e-mail, blogs and web pages provide fertile grounds for the populace to air grievances and engage in online ugliness for which there are seemingly no ramifications. Behind the assumed protection of the Internet, some writers hastily spew zingers or post diatribes that may lack both decorum and veracity.

But insurers are cautioning its customers to think before they click. Aside from igniting ire, online activities could have legal repercussions, especially if you have not purchased coverage options.

Adjusters should know that a standard home insurance policy won’t help policyholders pay to defend themselves against lawsuits involving libel, slander, or defamation of character. That’s because if someone decides to seek damages for what you have said online, it constitutes a personal injury claim.

According to insure.com, those seeking salvation from their insurers need one of the following: a personal injury endorsement to the home insurance policy; an umbrella policy that includes personal injury; or an excess liability policy that includes personal injury. It is important to note that even a personal injury endorsement or other coverage may not protect an insured for all online actions.

For more information about risks, read "Gossipy? Insurance for Blogs, E-mails and Other Pursuits Online That May Turn Ugly," at www.insure.com.