elpais.com
Spanish Doxing Spree Exposes Over 20 Anonymous Accounts
A group in Spain is doxing anonymous accounts on X, revealing the identities of over 20 individuals involved in online hate speech campaigns and harassment, raising concerns about online anonymity and freedom of expression.
- What are the immediate consequences of the increased doxing activity in Spain on social media platforms, specifically regarding freedom of expression and online discourse?
- In Spain, a group led by Isidoro Román Cuesta has revealed the identities of over 20 anonymous social media accounts since the start of 2025, focusing on those involved in hate speech campaigns or online harassment. Their actions have sparked debate about online anonymity and freedom of speech. The doxing has affected accounts across the political spectrum, with both conservative and progressive accounts targeted.
- How has the change in social media regulation, particularly on X, contributed to the increase in doxing cases in Spain and what are the broader implications for online safety and accountability?
- This wave of doxing in Spain is linked to decreased social media regulation following Elon Musk's purchase of X, increased tolerance of extreme views, and the platform's role in the spread of misinformation. The ease with which individuals can be identified online due to their digital footprint contributes to the issue. The practice, while controversial, has exposed individuals involved in hate campaigns and online harassment.
- What are the potential long-term legal and societal consequences of the current doxing trend in Spain, and what steps could be taken to mitigate the negative impacts while upholding freedom of expression?
- The rise of doxing highlights the tension between online anonymity and accountability. While some see it as a necessary tool to combat hate speech and harassment, others criticize it as a violation of privacy and an escalation of online conflict. Future legal challenges and potential legislative changes regarding online anonymity and freedom of speech are likely to result from this.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the issue primarily through the perspective of the doxing group led by Román Cuesta, presenting their justifications and actions prominently. While the perspectives of those who have been doxed are included, the framing emphasizes the doxers' motivations and actions as a primary driver of the narrative. The headline, if one were to be created, would likely emphasize the doxing activity itself, possibly focusing on the number of accounts exposed rather than a balanced overview.
Language Bias
The article uses language that sometimes leans towards characterizing the doxed accounts as purveyors of hate speech, while describing the doxers as those seeking to combat hate speech. Terms like "ultraderechista" (far-right) are used without extensive explanation of the specific nature of the content considered hateful. While the article aims to be objective, the use of these terms can subtly influence the reader's perception. More neutral terms that describe the content objectively would improve neutrality.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the actions of Isidoro Román Cuesta and his team, and the reactions of those doxed. While it mentions the broader context of increased doxing and relaxed social media regulations, it lacks in-depth exploration of alternative perspectives on doxing ethics, legal frameworks, or the potential for misuse by various groups beyond those highlighted. The motivations and actions of those who are doxed are presented largely through the lens of their critics.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplified dichotomy between those who engage in doxing (portrayed as fighting hate speech) and those who are doxed (often portrayed as purveyors of hate speech). This framing overlooks the potential for doxing to be used for reasons other than combating hate speech, and the potential for those doxed to be wrongly accused or targeted.
Gender Bias
The article mentions the doxing of both male and female accounts. However, there is no explicit analysis of whether gender played a role in the selection of targets, the nature of the accusations, or the responses to the doxing. Further investigation would be needed to assess potential gender bias.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the increase in doxing, the act of revealing personal information of anonymous accounts. This negatively impacts "Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions" as it creates a climate of fear and intimidation, potentially silencing dissenting voices and undermining freedom of expression. Doxing can lead to harassment, online abuse, and even real-world threats, eroding trust and social cohesion. The lack of adequate regulation and the permissive environment of social media platforms exacerbate the problem.