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Bill

SB 140

Public safety.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Garrett Bascom and 12 co-sponsors

Indiana SB 140 criminalizes publicly sharing someone's private personal information online to harass, intimidate, or endanger them, creating new penalties for doxxing offenses.

Signed by the Governor
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Bill Summary · SB 140

Legislative bill overview

SB 140 creates criminal penalties for "doxxing"—the practice of publicly sharing someone's private personal information (such as home address, phone number, or workplace) with intent to harass, intimidate, or endanger them. The bill establishes this as a new offense under Indiana criminal law and specifies the circumstances under which such conduct becomes punishable.

Why is this important

Doxxing has become an increasingly common form of online harassment that can lead to real-world threats, stalking, and violence against targeted individuals. This legislation addresses a gap in existing law by creating specific legal recourse for victims while also raising questions about where to draw the line between protected speech and harmful conduct in the digital age.

Potential points of contention

  • Free speech concerns: Critics may argue the bill could chill legitimate whistleblowing, investigative journalism, or public disclosure of information already available in public records
  • Definition ambiguity: The precise definitions of "private personal information" and intent standards (harassment vs. legitimate public interest) could create enforcement challenges and inconsistent application
  • Scope of liability: Questions about whether platforms, news outlets, and individuals sharing already-public information would face different legal exposure, and whether the law adequately distinguishes malicious doxxing from incidental information sharing

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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