Man arrested for doxxing ‘friend’

A 36-year-old man was arrested on Hong Kong Island on Tuesday for suspectedly disclosing the personal data of his “friend” without her consent. 

Investigation by the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data revealed that the victim and the man were friends.

In July 2022, three messages containing the personal data of the victim were posted in an open discussion group of a social media platform, alongside some negative comments on the victim. 

The personal data disclosed included the victim’s Chinese name, English surname, alias, age, mobile phone number, names of residential estate and building, name of secondary school, name of her former employer, her previous jobs and a screenshot of the victim’s profile on a social media platform depicting her face.

The man was granted bail and the office said investigation into the case will continue. 

The office reminded the public that they should not dox others because of personal disputes. 

“Doxxing is not a means to resolve disputes as it would only escalate conflict…Doxxing is a serious offense and the offender is liable to a HK$1 million fine and five years’ imprisonment upon conviction,” it added.