Doxing

Resources for Students/Staff/Faculty on the threat of Doxing

What is Doxing?

Doxing is the practice of gathering and exposing a person’s private information across various online platforms without their consent, often with the intention to cause harm, shame, or embarrass the user. Doxing may be conducted by researching public databases, hacking, or through social engineering. The term "doxing" is derived from the phrase "dropping dox (documents)".

Doxing often involves hackers attempting to embarrass or shame individuals by publishing confidential information, images or videos obtained from their personal accounts. Initially, doxing was used by hackers to "out" the identities of fellow bad actors/hackers. However, more recently, it has been used to attack users with opposing viewpoints.

Tips to avoid doxing

  • Avoid oversharing personal information online such as full name, address, phone number. Don’t share details that could identify you too closely, such as your workplace location, home address, or family details.
  • Make use of privacy settings.
  • Use strong, unique passwords for online accounts.
  • Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
  • Conduct periodic searches of your name and other personal details to see what information is publicly available online.
  • Consider using services that help track and remove unwanted personal data from
    the internet.

What should I do if I experience doxing as a student?

  • Document the abuse by saving evidence like screenshots, URLs, and any communication related to the harassment, as these will be useful if you decide to report the incident.
  • Request takedowns contacting website hosts or platforms to request removal of your information. Platforms like social media sites often have dedicated channels for reporting and taking down harmful content.
  • Report the incident by contacting local authorities.
  • Seek legal advice to understand your rights, especially if you're dealing with threats or other forms of harassment.

What should I do if I experience doxing as a staff or faculty?

  • Document the abuse by saving evidence like screenshots, URLs, and any communication related to the harassment, as these will be useful if you decide to report the incident.
  • Request takedowns contacting website hosts or platforms to request removal of your information. Platforms like social media sites often have dedicated channels for reporting and taking down harmful content.
  • Report the incident by contacting local authorities.
  • Seek legal advice to understand your rights, especially if you're dealing with threats or other forms of harassment.
  • If the doxing involves your workplace, inform your employer and request support. This may include internal policies for responding to harassment.
  • Reach out to colleagues and employers. Employers should be prepared to offer assistance, including providing security measures, helping with content removal, and offering resources for coping with the emotional impact.
  • Take care of your mental health. Dealing with doxing can be stressful and emotionally taxing. Take time for self-care and seek professional support, including counseling or talking to a trusted colleague or supervisor

Guidance for campus reporting of doxing incidents

If you feel unsafe or unsure about whom to call, SCCCD Police Department (559-244-5911) can assist or direct you to the appropriate on-campus resource. If you or those close to you are in imminent physical danger or there has been a direct threat of physical violence, you should immediately call 911.

Additional Information