What is Doxxing?
Doxxing (sometimes written as Doxing) is the act of revealing identifying information about someone online, such as their real name, home address, workplace, phone, financial, and other personal information. That information is then circulated to the public — without the victim's permission.
Is it against the law?
Doxxing itself isn't a specific offence under UK law but depending on the context and other surrounding circumstances it may be that it fits within a wider pattern of criminal behaviour such as harassment.
What to do if you're being doxxed online
We always suggest taking a screenshot of where the information has been shared. Try and include the URL (website address) if possible, times and dates of when it when posts were made, and any details of the page.
We understand that the first reaction you may have is to want to delete all the content immediately. This is your choice, but we do advise that if you want to seek legal action it may be best to contact the police first before reporting the content and risk having evidence removed prematurely.
If the information has been shared across social media, it may breach the platforms community guidelines. You can find some more information here from RHC about your privacy rights and reporting privacy violations.
We understand how distressing online crimes can be and encourage all victims to reach out and get extra support if they need it. You’re not alone and help is out there.