What is Doxed?
Doxed is a term referring to the act of publicly revealing personal information about an individual without their consent. This information can include a person’s home address, phone number, email address, social security number, or other sensitive data.
Origins of Doxing
The term ‘dox’ comes from ‘docs’ which is a shortened form of ‘documents’. It originally started in online forums and chatrooms as a way to intimidate or harass others by exposing their personal information. However, with the rise of social media and the internet, the practice has become more prevalent and can have serious consequences.
Examples of Doxing
- Someone posts their ex-partner’s address and phone number on a public website.
- A celebrity’s private photos are leaked online along with their personal contact information.
- An activist’s home address is shared on social media in an attempt to silence them.
Impact of Doxing
Doxing can have severe repercussions on individuals, including identity theft, harassment, stalking, and even physical harm. It can also damage personal and professional reputations, leading to job loss or social ostracism. Victims of doxing often experience fear, anxiety, and a loss of privacy and security.
Case Study
In 2014, a group of hackers known as Lizard Squad doxed the CEO of Sony Corporation, revealing his personal information online. This led to the CEO receiving numerous threatening emails and phone calls, as well as attempts to hack into his bank accounts. The incident caused significant distress for the CEO and his family, highlighting the serious consequences of doxing.
Preventing Doxing
To protect yourself from being doxed, it’s essential to be cautious about sharing personal information online. Avoid posting sensitive details such as your home address, phone number, or financial information on public forums or social media platforms. Use privacy settings to control who can access your information and consider using a VPN to hide your IP address.
Conclusion
Doxing is a harmful practice that can have lasting effects on individuals and their privacy. By understanding the meaning of doxed and taking precautions to safeguard your personal information, you can reduce the risk of becoming a victim of this invasive form of cyber harassment.
