Doxing, also spelled doxxing, is the act of publicly revealing private or identifying information about an individual or organization on the internet, usually without their consent. This information can include:
- Real name
- Home address
- Phone number
- Workplace
- Financial information
- Email address
- Social media profiles
- Photos
- Other personal details
Doxing can be done for a variety of reasons, such as:
- Revenge
- Harassment
- Intimidation
- Humiliation
- Journalism (although ethical journalists typically avoid doxing)
- Activism (although some activists argue that doxing is a necessary tool to hold powerful people accountable)
Here are some of the potential consequences of being doxed:
- Identity theft
- Stalking
- Harassment
- Loss of employment
- Physical harm
- Emotional distress
Doxing is a serious issue and can have a devastating impact on the victim. If you believe you have been doxed, it is important to take steps to protect yourself. Here are some tips:
- Report the doxing to the website or platform where it occurred.
- Change your passwords and security settings on all of your online accounts.
- Contact the police if you are being harassed or threatened.
- Consider seeking legal counsel.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about doxing:
- Doxing is not always illegal, but it can be a civil wrong.
- There are laws in some jurisdictions that make it illegal to dox someone with the intent to cause them harm.
- Even if doxing is not illegal, it can still be a very harmful act.
I hope this information helps!