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Doxxing

15th April, 2024

Doxxing

Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Context

  • A woman reported to Mumbai Police via Twitter about a man who shared a video of her dancing and compared it to sex work. Despite her requests, he refused to take it down, leading to harassment from others.

Doxxing

  • Doxxing Definition:
    • Doxxing involves publicizing private details like addresses, phone numbers, or medical conditions, often obtained illegally. Even sharing semi-public content without consent can constitute doxxing and harassment.
  • Intent Behind Doxxing:
    • Intent matters in determining if sharing information is malicious or abusive. Platforms like X take action against abusive sharing but doxxing often leads to global attacks on victims.
  • Impact of Doxxing:
    • Victims may face physical, digital, and emotional threats, requiring them to secure various aspects of their lives, such as finances, employment, and physical safety.

Ways to tackle Doxxing:

  • Actions to be taken by Victim:
    • Victims should keep evidence, report incidents to platforms and authorities, change passwords, and enable security measures like two-factor authentication. Legal recourse, including filing FIRs, is available in India.
  • Platform Responses:
    • Companies like Meta and Google have tools and policies to address doxxing. Discord updated its policies to separate doxxing and harassment guidelines.
  • Indian Legal Framework:
    • Indian IT Rules hold social media platforms accountable, allowing victims to file cybercrime complaints for quick action.
  • Recovery and Support:
    • Victims don't have to leave social media forever but should ensure the removal of Personally Identifiable Information (PII) and account security.
    • Having a support structure is crucial for recovery and resilience against future attacks.

Source: https://epaper.thehindu.com/ccidist-ws/th/th_international/issues/79308/OPS/G6CCKS0ME.1+GJNCM19DT.1.html

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Which term best describes the act of digitally publicizing an individual's private information without their consent, often leading to harassment and privacy violations?

A) Phishing

B) Cyberbullying

C) Doxxing

D) Social engineering

Answer: C)