WorldJuly 10, 2026

doxing

/ˈdɒksɪŋ/

Definition

The malicious practice of researching and publicly releasing private or identifying information about an individual, typically with the intent to harass, intimidate, or endanger them.

Etymology

Originating in the 1990s as internet slang, it comes from the term 'docs' (short for documents). It refers to the 'dropping of documents' that reveal a person's private identity or sensitive personal data.

In the news

In this article, the term is used to describe a digital tactic employed by a state-sponsored disinformation campaign to target Canadian residents. It serves as a tool for transnational repression alongside methods like deepfakes and swatting.

Open Letter | Canadian Coalition on Human Rights in China to Minister of Foreign Affairs Anita Anand : On the Occasion of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's Visit to Canada - Raoul Wallenberg Centre

Read the full article ↗

Raoul Wallenberg Centre

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