This bill establishes the crime of doxxing in New Jersey, defining it as the act of knowingly disclosing another person's personal identifying information without their consent, with the intent to subject that person or their close relations to violence, stalking, physical restraint, or mental anguish. The bill outlines specific conditions under which doxxing occurs, including creating a substantial risk of serious bodily injury or inflicting mental anguish. It also provides a detailed definition of "close relation," which encompasses various familial and significant personal relationships.
The legislation includes provisions that protect individuals from being charged with doxxing if the disclosure was made in good faith to inform the public or law enforcement about unlawful conduct, or while cooperating in an official investigation. Additionally, there is a rebuttable presumption that the actor did not intend to cause harm if the information was disclosed for the purpose of reporting on public officials or engaging in constitutionally protected activities. Violations of this law are classified as a fourth-degree crime, escalating to a third-degree crime if serious bodily injury or stalking results from the disclosure.