Is it illegal to dox someone online?
Generally legal if information is public, unless used for harassment or stalking.
Doxing, the act of releasing an individual's private information online, is not specifically a standalone federal crime in the United States if the information was obtained legally and publicly. However, the practice becomes illegal under federal and state law when it is used to facilitate stalking, harassment, identity theft, or threats of violence. If the data is obtained through illegal means, such as hacking, the act itself constitutes a serious criminal offense regardless of intent.
RELEVANT LAWS
- 18 U.S.C. § 2261AFederal Stalking Statute
- 18 U.S.C. § 1030Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA)
- California Civil Code § 1708.85Prohibition of Nonconsensual Disclosure of Private Images
- 18 U.S.C. § 875Interstate Communications (concerning threats)
POTENTIAL PENALTIES
- Up to 5 years in federal prison for interstate stalking
- Fines ranging from $1,000 to $250,000 depending on federal severity
- Civil lawsuits for invasion of privacy or intentional infliction of emotional distress
- Restraining orders and permanent criminal records
JURISDICTION
While federal laws cover interstate harassment, several states like California and Arizona have passed specific 'anti-doxing' civil or criminal statutes to increase protections.
In 2021, Kentucky became one of the first states to pass a law specifically allowing victims of doxing to sue for damages even if no physical harm occurred.
Got a different scenario? Get a custom AI verdict in seconds.
Try it free →RELATED QUESTIONS
- Is it illegal to remove a bird nest from your house?
- Is it illegal to ride a horse while drunk?
- Is it illegal to have sex in public?
- Is it illegal to jaywalk?
- Is it illegal to use cash for large purchases?
- Is it illegal to honk your horn for no reason?
- Is it illegal to collect rainwater?
- Is it illegal to build a tiny house on your land?
FOR EDUCATIONAL & ENTERTAINMENT USE ONLY · NOT LEGAL ADVICE