Is Doxxing Legal in Costa Rica After the 2026 Policy Reforms?

No, doxxing violates Costa Rican privacy laws under the Ley de Protección de la Vida Privada (Ley 7975) and the Código Penal (Art. 197), risking fines up to ₡10 million or imprisonment. The Autoridad de Protección de Datos de los Habitantes (PRODHAB) enforces these rules, with 2026 amendments tightening penalties for digital harassment.


Key Regulations for Doxxing in Costa Rica

  • Ley 7975 (2000): Prohibits unauthorized disclosure of personal data, including home addresses or financial records, with penalties under Art. 33 for violations.
  • Código Penal (Art. 197): Criminalizes defamation and privacy breaches via electronic means, mandating up to 3 years imprisonment for aggravated cases.
  • PRODHAB Guidelines (2026): Mandate platforms to remove doxxing content within 24 hours of complaint, with failure to comply triggering administrative sanctions.

Enforcement prioritizes cases involving public officials, journalists, or vulnerable groups, as per Decreto Ejecutivo 42720-MP. Foreign actors may face extradition under bilateral treaties if their actions target Costa Rican residents.