Man arrested for suspectedly doxxing former secondary school classmate

A 32-year-old man was arrested by the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data (PCPD) on Tuesday for he was suspected to have disclosed the personal data of his former classmate. 

The arrest was made in the New Territories, the PCPD said. Investigation revealed that the victim and the arrested person were former secondary school classmates whose relationship turned sour because of some personal grudges. 

In January, two messages containing the personal data of the victim were posted in two open discussion groups on a social media platform, alongside some negative comments and allegations against the victim. 

The personal data disclosed also included the victim’s Chinese name, former occupation and his photo. 

The arrested man has been granted bail and the PCPD said it will continue the investigation into the case. 

The PCPD reminds the public that they should not dox others because of personal disputes. Doxxing is not a means of resolving disputes as it would only escalate conflict. 

The PCPD also reminds that doxxing is a serious offense and the offender is liable on conviction for up to a HK$1 million fine and five years’ imprisonment.