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What doxxing means for journalists
Doxxing — publishing a journalist’s home address, family members’ details, or other private information — is used to intimidate journalists into silence, expose them to physical threat, and generate coordinated harassment campaigns. It disproportionately affects women journalists, journalists from minority communities, and those covering politically charged beats. The goal is usually to make the cost of journalism feel personal and physical, not just professional.
For legal guidance on harassment as a legal concept, see also our harassment and doorstepping guide in the law hub.
Immediate response: first steps
- 1
Document everything: take screenshots with timestamps, save URLs, note when content first appeared. Do this before requesting removal — content can disappear.
- 2
Assess the immediate threat level: is there any indication of physical threat? If yes, call 999. If not, move to police reporting via 101 or the online reporting portal.
- 3
Request removal from platforms: most major platforms (Twitter/X, Facebook, Reddit) have doxxing-specific takedown policies. Use these. They can be slow but create a formal record.
- 4
Contact your editor and HR: do not handle this alone. Your employer has a duty of care and may have specialist resources.
- 5
Contact the NUJ: the NUJ has experience dealing with harassment campaigns against journalists and can provide advice and referrals.
- 6
Review your physical security: if your home address is published, consider temporary security upgrades (see checklist below).
Red flags indicating escalation risk
- Home address or family details have been published alongside expressions of intent to cause harm.
- Multiple coordinated accounts are amplifying personal information about you.
- You have received threats that reference your physical location or daily routine.
- The harassment is connected to a specific story that attracted organised opposition.
- Unknown vehicles or individuals are observed near your home.
Response checklist
- I have documented all harassment with timestamps and screenshots before requesting removal.
- I have reported to police (999 if immediate threat; 101 or online if not) and have a crime reference number.
- I have reported the doxxing content to the relevant platforms using their specific doxxing policies.
- I have notified my editor and, if applicable, HR.
- I have contacted the NUJ for support and referrals.
- I have reviewed my physical security: changed routines, notified neighbours, considered additional door security.
- I have sought mental health support — the Dart Centre and NUJ referrals are available.
- If another publication published my information: I have filed an IPSO complaint if they are IPSO-regulated.
Source protection & risk tools
Use our story risk register to log harassment incidents and track escalation.
Common mistakes
- Not documenting harassment before requesting removal — once removed, the evidence is gone.
- Engaging with harassers directly — this often amplifies the harassment.
- Handling it alone — editorial management and HR have obligations to you.
- Not making a police report because you think it will not lead anywhere — the record matters.
- Neglecting your mental health — sustained harassment has well-documented psychological effects.
Related guides
Primary sources
Frequently asked questions
What is doxxing and is it illegal in the UK?
Should I report doxxing or online harassment to the police?
Can I complain to IPSO if another publication has published my address?
What mental health support is available for journalists experiencing harassment?
Related guides
Primary sources
- Protection from Harassment Act 1997— legislation.gov.uk
- Making a Complaint to IPSO— IPSO
- Journalist Safety — Online Harassment— Reporters Without Borders
- Journalist Security Guide— Committee to Protect Journalists
- Dart Centre for Journalism and Trauma— Dart Centre
- Your Right to Have Personal Data Deleted— Information Commissioner's Office
- Samaritans — 116 123— Samaritans