Woman arrested for doxxing ex-boyfriend over relationship issues

A 28-year-old woman was arrested in New Territories on Thursday for suspectedly disclosing the personal data of her ex-boyfriend without his consent. 

Investigation by the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data (PCPD) revealed that the victim and woman were a couple. In mid 2022, the woman contacted the victim to harass him and demanded compensation from him but the victim refused. 

This April, a total of 14 messages containing the personal data of the victim were posted in an open discussion group and in a personal account on a social media platform, alongside some negative comments on the victim. 

The personal data disclosed included the victim’s Chinese name, English name, photos, names of his secondary school, university and faculty, as well as the name of the company in which he worked. 

The woman was remanded in custody, and the PCPD said investigation into the case will continue. 

The PCPD reminds 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.