Understanding and Safeguarding Against Doxxing

What is Doxxing?

Doxxing occurs when your personal information, such as your address and telephone number, is published online without your consent. Often, this information is shared with malicious intent, encouraging others to harass you.

Why Should We Be Concerned?

Doxxing is a severe invasion of privacy. When your personal information is made public alongside false accusations, it can lead to online harassment, social stigma, and emotional distress. The impact can be profound, affecting your mental well-being and sense of security.

Warning Signs of Being Affected by Doxxing

• Behavioral Changes: Signs of anxiety, depression, mood swings, and strong reactions.
• Increased Anxiety: Feeling stressed and anxious when checking your mobile.
• Social Withdrawal: Isolating oneself and behaving secretively.

How to Safeguard Against Doxxing

Doxxing can be a nightmare, tarnishing your social and public image through malicious rumors. Here are some measures to protect yourself:

• Limit Personal Information Sharing: Do not share personal details like your address, mobile number, or personal email ID publicly online.
• Enhance Account Security: Use two-factor authentication and strong, unique passwords for different social media accounts.
• Use a VPN: Employ a VPN to encrypt your data and protect your IP address while using the internet.
• Document Evidence: Save screenshots and any evidence of the doxxing incident for future reference.

Actions to Take If Affected by Doxxing

1. Report to Authorities: Register a complaint at your nearest cyber crime police station.
2. Online Complaint: You can also file an online complaint anonymously at cybercrime.gov.in.
3. Notify Social Media Platforms: Report the incident to the help center of the social media platform where the doxxing occurred.

Legal Framework Against Doxxing

In India, doxxing is not explicitly addressed by law, but several provisions can be applied:

• Section 354D IPC: Addresses online stalking.
• Section 509 IPC: Pertains to acts intended to insult the modesty of a woman.
• Section 67 IT Act: Covers the publishing of obscene material in electronic form.

Other related laws include:

• Voyeurism: Section 354C IPC and IT Act.
• Divulging Sexually Explicit Content: IT Act.
• Obscene Content: Section 292 IPC.
• Defamation: Section 499 IPC.

Doxxing violates our right to privacy and dignity, as enshrined in Article 21 of the Constitution of India, highlighting the need for more robust legal protections.