it's so easy to just tell the truth. or to not say anything. it's so easy to just not lie. and in terms of lying, lying about oneself is one thing - embellishing achievements or fabricating life events, whatever, fine, that's not illegal. it's super weird and pathetic and betraying of insecurities and self-esteem, but it's not illegal. choosing to lie about other people is where actual injury comes into play. engaging in such disturbing behavior betrays a deeply insecure, coveting nature. it is deeply deranged, antisocial behavior with an intent to cause distress and to damage someone's relationship or credibility. anyone who fabricates malicious and disparaging lies about another person is doing so to purposefully harm them, full stop. there is no arguing against that; it's an indefensible position. and it can be illegal if you do it enough.