Bill > S1108

This bill creates a new legal provision in Massachusetts law to address "doxing," which is the malicious public disclosure of an individual's personal information with the intent to cause harm. Specifically, the bill allows a person to sue another individual who knowingly disseminates their personal information (such as home address, phone number, or workplace) without consent, when such disclosure is intended to harass, stalk, or threaten the individual or their family members. The bill defines key terms like "personal information" and "family member" and provides that plaintiffs who successfully prove a doxing claim can recover actual and punitive damages, attorney fees, and other relief. The law contains important exceptions, such as not applying to information shared for reporting potential unlawful conduct or exercising constitutional rights like free speech. The bill also explicitly excludes internet service providers and telecommunications companies from liability when they are merely transmitting content provided by others. Notably, the bill pays special attention to protecting individuals seeking sensitive health services, such as gender-affirming or reproductive healthcare, by considering the context of information disclosure when determining damages. The law would apply to conduct occurring on or after its effective date and must be filed within two years of the doxing incident.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1108