Alternatively called doxed or doxxing, doxing is sharing someone’s personal information online without their consent. Examples of personal information include full name, address, history, and other identifying information that prevents a user from remaining anonymous. This information is often obtained through personal connections, social networks, sale of data, hacking, or publicly-accessible online databases.

How to prevent doxing

To prevent doxing, avoid revealing crucial information on the Internet unless you can verify the source is trustworthy. Check website URLs before entering your name, home address, or credit card information to ensure your data cannot be used against you.

Why is it called doxing?

The root word “dox” is from the abbreviation “docs,” which is short for documents. It is used because when someone is doxing you, they’re posting your documents (information).

Is doxing illegal?

There are no federal laws that criminalize someone who doxes another person with publicly available information who is not a government employee, informant, juror, or witness. However, because doxing is often done with malicious intent, it may fall under federal stalking laws. Also, doxing is often against the ToS (terms of service) of many websites and social networks, and often results in a temporary or permanent ban.

If the information used in the doxing attack was obtained illegally or taken from a non-public database, the doxer could be charged with data theft or stealing confidential information.

What should I do if I’ve been doxed?

If you’re a victim of a doxing attack on a social network, forum, or other message boards, take a screenshot of the post for evidence. Once you’ve done so, report the post or the user making the post.

  • How to take a screenshot.

Next, consult with an attorney for any state laws relating to cyberstalking or harassment. If you were threatened about your information being posted public before it was posted, look into local extortion laws. Finally, if the information posted is not available online or you believe it was obtained illegally, look into data theft laws.

Finally, if an attorney believes nothing can be done, and you know who is doing the doxing, consider filing a civil suit against the person.

Anonymous, Computer crime, Computer slang, Internet terms, Security terms, Social network, Troll

  • How to protect yourself while on the Internet.
  • How to hack someone or something.