No.
Doxxing—publicly revealing private personal information with intent to harass or harm—is illegal in Maryland under multiple statutes. The state criminalizes cyberstalking (Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law § 3-805) and harassment (Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law § 3-803), with penalties escalating for repeat offenses or when targeting protected classes. Local prosecutors, including the Baltimore City State’s Attorney’s Office, have prioritized enforcement under 2024 legislative expansions targeting digital harassment. Civil liability may also attach via tort claims for invasion of privacy or intentional infliction of emotional distress.
Key Regulations for Doxxing in Maryland
- Cyberstalking Statute (Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law § 3-805): Prohibits electronic communication with intent to harass, alarm, or cause serious emotional distress, including publishing private data. Violations are misdemeanors, punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment and/or $5,000 fines for first offenses.
- Harassment Statute (Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law § 3-803): Criminalizes repeated, unwanted contact via any medium, including doxxing, when it causes fear or substantial distress. Enhanced penalties apply for offenses involving minors or vulnerable adults.
- Privacy Protection Act (Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-401 et seq.): Imposes civil liability for unauthorized disclosure of personal information, allowing victims to seek injunctive relief and damages. The Maryland Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division enforces compliance, particularly in cases involving data brokers.