EXOD774 All that we have written applies even if there is a single speaker or listener. However, if one joins a group of wicked people who are habitual lashon hara speakers in order to relate or listen to lashon hara, then he also violates the prohibition of לֹֽא־תִהְיֶ֥ה אַחֲרֵֽי־רַבִּ֖ים לְרָעֹ֑ת, “Do not follow the majority for evil" (Shemos 23:2). According to Rabbeinu Yonah (Shaarei Teshuvah 3:50), this prohibition cautions a person not to concur or associate with wrongdoers, even if they are numerous.