Question:
Is one allowed to speak lashon hara about various people for the purpose of teaching someone how to identify and avoid problematic people?
Answer:
Hello,
It depends on the circumstances. Lashon hora l’toeles is permitted only in the context of protecting a person from harm. Therefore, if you are telling someone to stay away from a particular person because that person might harm them, that is permitted. However, merely pointing out problematic people, even if they are not going to harm the listener, is not considered l’toeles and is not permitted, because the person is not being protected by your speaking lashon hora.
Best wishes
