Why is doxing not illegal?
Jessica Wood
Updated on January 19, 2026
It is illegal to hack someone's computer or personal device without permission, regardless of whether the information is accessed and released or not. These crimes can even reach state or federal courts. Now, doxxing is not illegal because it is primarily done using OSINT, which is publicly available information.
Can doxing be illegal?
Penalties for Doxing in CaliforniaIndividuals arrested and charged with cyber harassment (doxing) under Penal Code §653.2 face up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. The charge is a misdemeanor charge. A criminal defense lawyer may negotiate a plea agreement for probation instead of jail time.