Doxxing can be illegal, but its legality depends on the specific circumstances, such as the intent behind it and the jurisdiction. While doxxing itself isn't always explicitly illegal everywhere, it often falls under existing laws like those against harassment, stalking, and incitement to violence, and new anti-doxxing laws are being enacted in various places. The act is often considered a crime when it involves sharing personal information with the intent to cause harm, threats, or incite illegal actions.
What does it mean to dox someone?
To dox someone means to publish or expose personal information about them without their consent, usually online. The information can include a home address, phone number, workplace, email address, identity details, or family information. Doxxing is often intended to intimidate, harass, identify, or make the target easier to locate.
Is doxxing illegal in the United States?
Doxxing is not automatically illegal in every U.S. case, and there is no single comprehensive federal law banning all doxxing. However, particular conduct may violate federal or state laws covering threats, stalking, harassment, identity information, or protected officials. Whether an act is unlawful depends on what was shared, how, and why.
What should someone do if they are doxxed?
If someone is doxxed, they should preserve evidence, report the exposed information to the platform, review account security, and reduce publicly visible personal data. If the disclosure includes threats, stalking, financial information, or creates an immediate safety risk, contacting the appropriate local authorities or specialist support may also be necessary.
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Doxxing can be illegal, but its legality depends on the specific circumstances, such as the intent behind it and the jurisdiction. While doxxing itself isn't always explicitly illegal everywhere, it often falls under existing laws like those against harassment, stalking, and incitement to violence, and new anti-doxxing laws are being enacted in various places. The act is often considered a crime when it involves sharing personal information with the intent to cause harm, threats, or incite illegal actions.
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Doxxing. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 20, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/doxxing
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