Norwich Pharmacal Orders
Identify anonymous defamers and request user data from social media platforms
Based in Ireland, we can apply directly to the High Court to compel platforms like Meta and Google to disclose user details.
A Norwich Pharmacal Order (NPO) is a legal tool that allows us to compel social media platforms and digital service providers to reveal the identity of an anonymous user who has posted harmful or defamatory content. It is commonly used in cases of defamation on Facebook, Instagram slander, or anonymous trolling on social media.
Let us call you.
Because companies like Meta (Facebook, Instagram, Threads, WhatsApp), Google (YouTube), X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok have their European headquarters in Ireland, the Irish courts have jurisdiction to compel them to disclose account and usage data.
Who is a Norwich Pharmacal Order for?
An NPO is typically used by individuals or businesses who are:
-
Victims of online defamation, harassment or impersonation
-
Facing reputational damage from anonymous social media accounts
-
Trying to stop fake reviews, leaked images, or targeted attacks
-
Looking to take legal action against an unknown offender
You do not need to be based in Ireland to apply for a Norwich Pharmacal Order — we regularly act for clients in the United States, United Kingdom, and across Europe.
What kind of data can be disclosed?
If your application is successful, the court may order the platform to provide:
-
Account name and associated email address
-
Phone number and payment details (if available)
-
IP addresses used to register and access the account
-
Device identifiers (e.g. MAC address or IMEI)
-
Login and activity logs (timestamps, post edits/deletions)
-
Connected accounts (if the user operates multiple fake profiles)
This information can help you sue for defamation in your own country or take other legal steps once the offender is identified.
What does the process involve?
We take care of the full legal process on your behalf. This typically includes:
-
Reviewing your evidence (e.g. screenshots, URLs, timestamps)
-
Preparing a legal submission to the Irish High Court
-
Making the application to compel the platform to disclose the data
-
Receiving and relaying the user information to you
-
Advising on next steps — whether to pursue a takedown, settlement or defamation claim
In many cases, we can begin the application process within days.
Why apply in Ireland?
Ireland is the EU base for most major digital platforms. That means:
-
You can apply directly to the Irish courts, even if you live abroad
-
The process is often faster and more cost-effective than pursuing similar action in your home country
-
You may have more success due to Irish data protection law and jurisdiction over tech companies
This makes Ireland one of the most effective legal routes to uncover anonymous users and protect your reputation.
How do I know if I qualify?
To succeed in your application, you must show:
-
A strong arguable case for defamation or wrongdoing
-
That the platform is a neutral party with key information
-
That you cannot proceed without this data
-
That the information is needed to pursue justice
We’ll guide you through the legal thresholds and advise on whether your case is suitable.
We help clients worldwide
At Adams Law, we regularly assist international clients seeking Norwich Pharmacal Orders against companies like:
-
Meta Platforms Ireland (Facebook, Instagram, Threads, WhatsApp)
-
Twitter International (X)
-
Google Ireland (YouTube, Gmail)
-
Snap Ireland (Snapchat)
-
TikTok Ireland
Whether you’re in New York, London, Dubai or Sydney — we can act on your behalf here in Ireland to obtain the data you need.
Why choose Adams Law?
-
Decades of experience in Irish High Court applications
-
Trusted by international clients and businesses
-
Clear, fast advice and discreet legal support
-
Direct access to tech companies via Irish jurisdiction
Start your application today
If you’re facing online defamation, social media abuse, or trolling from anonymous accounts, we can help uncover the truth.
Email us at info@adamslaw.ie
Call us at +353 1 678 9774
Or use the form below to request a confidential consultation.
