The Infamous 'Star Trek Actress Case'

The unfolding situation was undoubtedly traumatic for Chase Masterson, with the case eventually reaching federal district court. However, the district court judge ultimately sided with Metrosplash.com, Inc. for rules under the Communications Decency Act of 1996. Basically, Matchmaker.com was classified as an interactive computer service, which means the company isn't liable for what other individuals put on the website. Users create the content, helping establish a precedent that websites that host data aren't responsible for what people publish.

Masterson appealed the verdict, but the appellate court also ruled in favor of Matchmaker. Liability rested with the person who released her personal details, not the company. It may have been disappointing for Masterson, but with the account taken down, she was able to get her life back on track. She continued acting over the years, including getting a guest spot on "The Flash." But much of her attention has gone toward charitable endeavors since the court case, including working with Homeboy Industries, which aids men and women who used to be in gangs or incarcerated in redirecting their lives. Masterson is also the founder of the Pop Culture Hero Coalition.

This is a first-of-its-kind organization that utilizes television and film to prevent bullying from taking place in schools, conventions, and online. From conversations with celebrities to coloring books aimed at promoting mental health, Pop Culture Hero Coalition celebrates fandom to help people overcome hardship. Masterson understands online abuse better than most, so to see her assist those who perhaps don't have the same resources is truly heartwarming to witness.