Posted on November 4, 2025 in Criminal Defense

What Is Doxing?

The internet can be a powerful tool for connection, but it also creates new risks for personal privacy. One of the most concerning threats in the digital world today is doxing—a form of online harassment that can quickly escalate into real-world consequences. 

Whether you’re a private individual, a public figure, or just someone with a social media account, understanding what doxing is—and how to protect yourself—is more important than ever.

Doxing Defined

Doxing (also spelled “doxxing”) is the act of publicly revealing personal, sensitive, or identifying information about someone without their consent. The term comes from “dropping docs,” referring to documents containing private data. 

The goal is often to embarrass, intimidate, or retaliate against the person being targeted. Doxing can include:

• Full names
• Home addresses
• Phone numbers
• Email addresses
• Workplace details
• Family members’ information
• Private messages or photos

In some cases, even seemingly harmless information—like usernames or photos—can be weaponized when shared with malicious intent.

Examples of Doxing

Doxing can take many forms. Some common examples include:

• Posting someone’s home address or phone number in an online forum
• Sharing screenshots of private conversations or emails
• Publishing a person’s workplace info to encourage harassment or complaints
• Exposing sensitive financial or legal documents
• Linking someone’s personal identity to their anonymous online profiles

Sometimes doxing happens in response to online arguments, political disagreements, or even gaming disputes—but no matter the motive, the results can be damaging and dangerous.

Is Doxing Illegal?

Whether doxing is technically illegal depends on the circumstances and your jurisdiction. In general, simply sharing publicly available information isn’t always a crime. 

However, doxing can become illegal when it crosses into other offenses, such as:

• Harassment or stalking
• Threats of violence or intimidation
• Identity theft or fraud
• Defamation

In the U.S., some states have passed laws specifically targeting doxing, especially when it endangers the safety of the person being exposed. Even when criminal charges don’t apply, civil lawsuits may be an option for victims seeking compensation.

What To Do if You’ve Been Doxed

If you’ve been targeted by doxing, take action immediately to protect yourself and your loved ones:

• Document everything. Take screenshots of the posts or messages that contain your information.
• Report the content to the platform where it was shared (social media, forums, websites).
• Contact law enforcement, especially if you’re being harassed, threatened, or fear for your safety.
• Freeze or lock down your accounts, including social media, email, and banking profiles.
• Alert your employer if workplace harassment is involved.

The sooner you respond, the more control you can regain over the situation.

How To Protect Yourself From Doxing

Prevention is key when it comes to doxing. While no one can completely eliminate risk online, you can reduce your exposure by:

• Limiting what personal info you share publicly, including photos, check-ins, and family details
• Using strong privacy settings on all social media platforms
• Creating separate usernames and emails for personal and professional accounts
• Avoiding the use of your real name in public forums when possible
• Monitoring your online presence with tools like Google Alerts
• Using two-factor authentication for all logins

Think of online privacy like a lock on your door: the more layers you have, the harder it is for someone to get in.

Know When To Contact an Attorney

If you’ve been accused of doxing in Arizona, especially if it’s led to claims of harassment, threats, or emotional harm, speaking with a criminal defense attorney may be one of the most important steps you take. 

A lawyer can assess the situation, explain your rights under state or federal law, and help you respond before things escalate. Online allegations can feel overwhelming—but legal help is available, and you don’t have to face it alone. 

For more information, contact the criminal defense attorney Craig Orent. Give us a call at (480) 656-7301 or visit our law office at 11811 N Tatum Blvd UNIT 3031, Phoenix, AZ 85028. We offer a free case evaluation, so get the help you deserve today.