From Jan. 1, 2024, the use of personal data for the purpose of harassment will become punishable.
Using another person's personal information to share with the intent to intimidate that person - also known as doxing - is punishable as of Jan. 1. The phenomenon of doxing is common. Personal data, such as addresses and phone numbers, as well as private information about family members, is spread in app groups so that it can be used to frighten someone. This has a great impact on the people who are being harassed in this way. They fear for their safety and that of their loved ones. They can no longer express their opinions without concern. Or they are no longer able to perform their functions. This affects our fundamental freedoms, and the functioning of our democratic rule of law.
Often it is aid workers, police officers, journalists and politicians who become victims of doxing. But scientists, opinion makers or employees of municipalities also have to deal with people who spread or forward their personal data with the aim of harassing them. Doxing is not limited to certain professions, people can face this for all kinds of reasons. Consider, for example, someone posting an ex-partner's photo and phone number on a dubious online forum to instill fear in them.
