Doxing
Publicly sharing someone\'s private information, such as their home address, phone number, or workplace, without their consent, usually with malicious intent.
In plain English
Publicly sharing someone\'s private information, such as their home address, phone number, or workplace, without their consent, usually with malicious intent.
Why it matters
Doxing of children can lead to harassment, swatting, and offline violence. It often follows online arguments in gaming or fandom communities. Children rarely understand how quickly small clues like a school logo or street sign can identify them.
What to do
Parents and carers
Save screenshots, report to the platform, and contact the police if your child\'s identity or address has been shared.
Teens
Avoid posting your school name, uniform, street, or live location. If someone threatens to share your details, block, report, and tell an adult.
Related
Risks and topics
This is practical educational content to support families. For case-specific concerns about a child's safety, contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or your local safeguarding team.
Last reviewed: 2026-05-17