What Does Doxxing Mean?

Doxxing is the deliberate act of revealing or publicizing private personal information about an individual without their permission. This information can include names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, or even workplace details.

The intent behind doxxing is often to harass, intimidate, or harm the person targeted. It is a serious violation of privacy and, depending on the country or jurisdiction, can be considered a criminal offense.

Example

"The hacker threatened to dox the company’s executives if they didn’t comply with their demands."

How Is Doxxing Used on Social Media?

Doxxing is typically carried out on social media platforms or forums, where users may post sensitive information to attack, embarrass, or harass others. It’s often weaponized during online disputes or targeted campaigns and has sparked widespread concern about digital privacy and user safety.

Pro Tip

If you ever find yourself being doxxed, report the incident to the platform immediately and document everything. You may also need to involve legal authorities, as the impact can be both personal and professional.