Getting Help with Online Doxing
Doxing is a serious and dangerous form of intimidation involving the publication of someone's personal information such as, but not limited to, email addresses, physical addresses, phone number, places of work, leading to harassment, emotional distress, financial loss, and physical danger.
This is a remind we are NOT lawyers or a law firm. If you or someone you know is in immediate physical danger, please contact 911 or your local emergency services. Enduring online harassment can be overwhelming,
Here are steps you can take to protect yourself:
1. Document the Abuse- If you are experiencing online abuse, harassment or threats, consider taking steps to preserve evidence - e.g. any related emails, voicemails, texts or social media posts or comments. This is crucial for reporting and potential legal action.
2. Request Takedowns- If an individual or organization has doxed you, this attack may include making false or misleading statements about you online. Consider directly reaching out to platforms or web domains where your information has been shared to request this information be taken down from these sites or to have the information corrected.
In this takedown request, it is important that you:
- Identify yourself
- Identify the statements and explain why they are false or misleading
- Describe how the statements are harming you.
When considering your options, be aware that each situation is unique and requires careful judgment. While a takedown request may remove the misleading information, it might also be counterproductive if the account you are making your request from is hostile. Instead, prioritize reporting directly to the platform or web hosting service if they have clearly defined community standards that have been violated. Many platforms (e.g., Instagram, YouTube) offer designated reporting channels.
If the content resides on a website directly operated by the individual who targeted you and not a major platform, you can still attempt takedown by contacting the website's hosting service. Many web hosting companies have established acceptable use policies and allow abuse reporting.
3. Report Threats- Don’t hesitate to involve the authorities if you are being abused, harassed or threatened. call 911, your local authorities, and The FBI
4. Seek Legal Advice- While freedom of speech is protected by the Constitution, it's important to understand that it has limitations. Federal and State laws protect against obscenity, defamation, fraud, incitement and speech directly linked to criminal activities.
Even with free speech considerations, you may have legal avenues to address any online harassment or doxing, such as a cease and desist letter or pursuing a legal complaint. These avenues can serve as deterrents and, in some cases, lead to compensation or justice.
Consulting with an attorney is crucial before embarking on any legal path. They can help you explore the potential benefits and risks of litigation, including the financial costs and potential limitations of your claim.
5. Protect Your Privacy- Limit your digital presence, request your personal information be removed from public areas, set up new passwords and 2 factor authorization, and secure your privacy on and offline.
Crisis Support
- 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline — Call or text 988 (24/7
- The Trevor Project — Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678678
- Trans Lifeline — Call 877-565-8860