It is forbidden to speak badly of others (lashon ha-ra). This is the case even when the statement is true. Even worse is telling lies and slandering someone (hotza’at shem ra). Less evil, but still prohibited, is simple gossip (rekhilut) – talking about someone else’s private life. Even when gossip is not negative, it is forbidden because it compromises privacy. Nobody wants people gossiping about their private lives. Nevertheless, well-known information may be shared, as long as the sharing is motivated neither by animosity nor a desire to mock.
