Is It Illegal to Post Someone’s Address Online? Complete Guide

Yes, in certain situations posting a person’s address online may be considered illegal, particularly in cases where it’s carried out with malicious intent or results in harassment threats, harm, or harassment. The laws governing this matter differ according to the jurisdiction of origin, however certain acts, such as Doxxing (publicly giving out personal information to harass or threaten) could result in penal penalties for civil or criminal violations in accordance with federal and state law.

Legal Implications of Posting Someone’s Address Online

1. Doxxing and Intent to Harass

Defined: Doxxing refers to the practice of publically revealing the personal information of a person like their home address, number of phones number, or work address, without their consent.
Laws against Doxxing Although there isn’t a federal law that explicitly prohibits doxxing several states have passed laws that prohibit the practice when it results in threats, harassment or even harm.
Example:
California Penal Code Section 653.2: Prohibits the electronic dissemination of personal data with the intention of causing harassment or inflict harm.
The New York Harassment Law Criminalizes sharing someone’s address when it causes the fear from physical injury or harassment.

2. Privacy Laws

Privacy Expectations The sharing of someone’s address without consent could infringe on their privacy when the information isn’t currently publicly accessible.
Public vs. Private Information:
Records that are public (e.g. taxes on property) are usually available, and sharing them will not be in violation of privacy laws.
However, taking private information from sources that are not public or combining public information in a manner that causes harm may cross the legal boundaries.

3. Harassment and Cyberstalking

A person’s email address on the internet in a manner that could result in threats or stalking could be considered to be cyberstalking in accordance with federal and state laws, like those governed by the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and state laws against cyberstalking.

4. Defamation and Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress

Sharing an address with false or defamatory remarks could result in legal claims in defamation or emotional stress.

5. Swatting Risks

If a post online leads to an “swatting” incident (a false report that causes law enforcement agencies to investigate an address) the person who is responsible for the posting of the address could be charged with a crime for unauthorized use in the use of emergency assistance.

When Posting an Address Is Legal

1. Public Records

In the event that an address is accessible in public records the sharing of it will not be in violation of the law. For instance, real-estate transactions, or voter registration records are typically public records.

2. Legitimate Purposes

Sharing an address for legitimate reasons for business purposes, like delivery or contact information, is generally legal, provided it’s you do it with no malicious intention.

3. First Amendment Protections

The First Amendment may protect the public disclosure of information however these protections aren’t absolute and don’t cover threats or harassment.

Consequences of Posting Someone’s Address Illegally

1. Civil Penalties

Victims are able to file lawsuits against the government for privacy invasion, defamation or deliberate infliction or emotional pain seeking compensation for any harm caused by disclosure.

2. Criminal Penalties

Violation of anti-doxxing, harassment or stalking laws could result in criminal charges that include the possibility of jail time and fines.
Example A case study: In California the penalty for violators is up to a year in prison as well as penalties according to Penal Code Section 653.2.

3. Protective Orders

Victims can seek restraining orders or injunctions to stop any further disclosure of their personal data.

How to Avoid Legal Risks When Posting Information Online

1. Avoid Sharing Private Details

Avoid posting personal information such as telephone numbers, addresses or email addresses unless you have your explicit permission.

2. Check the Source of Information

Make sure that the information you divulge is made publicly accessible and not obtained by illicit or illegal methods.

3. Understand the Consequences

Be aware of the ways in which the information you provide can be employed. If there is a danger of harassment, harm or threats, you should refrain from sharing your information.

Related FAQs

Q1. Is it illegal to publish the address of someone on an online forum?

The answer: It depends on the intention and the context. Information that is publicly accessible is usually not illegal, however doing it to harass, intimidate or cause harm could result in legal consequences.

Q2. Can I sue someone who is posting my address on the internet?

Answer: Yes, if the posting of your address results in harm, you could be able to bring a lawsuit for privacy invasion or defamation. You may also be able to sue for emotional distress.

Q3. What exactly is doxxing and is it an offense?

The answer: Doxxing is the act of sharing publicly private information without their consent usually with a malicious motive. It is a crime in many areas if it causes hurt or harassment.

Q4. What do I need to know if someone publishes an address on the internet?

Contact the platform on which you posted it.
Make a police report in the event that you feel harassed or threatened.
Take legal advice, or an order of restraining.

Q5. Can I put up an online business address?

Answer: Yes, business addresses are typically considered public information and may be shared, unless it is used in a malicious manner.

Conclusion

The posting of an address online may be legal provided that the address is publically available and not shared with any malicious motive. However, if it’s used to harass, intimidate or cause harm, it could cause grave criminal and civil penalties as per laws that prohibit harassment, doxxing, and infringement of privacy. Individuals must be cautious about sharing personal data and are aware of the legal implications when they do so.