What it is
Doxing, also spelled doxxing, is the collection and publication of personal or identifying information without the subject's consent, often to intimidate, harass, threaten, or enable further abuse. Exposed data may include a home address, phone number, employer, relatives, private accounts, financial details, or location history.
How it works
A perpetrator may combine public records, social profiles, breached databases, domain-registration data, photos, and clues reused across usernames. Social engineering or account compromise can add private material. Individual pieces may look harmless, but combining them can identify a person and reveal routines or relationships.
Key points
Doxing can lead to impersonation, swatting, stalking, phishing, employment harassment, or physical danger.
Deleting one post may not remove copies, search results, archives, or data shared in private groups.
The legal definition and available remedies vary by jurisdiction and by the threats involved.
What to do
Preserve URLs, timestamps, screenshots, and threatening messages before requesting removal.
Report the material to the platform, search engine, employer, and relevant authorities as appropriate.
Secure accounts, remove public recovery details, and warn household members about impersonation attempts.
Contact emergency services immediately when the disclosure includes a credible physical threat.