Today it has become common on social media for people to be named and shamed. While this may seem entertaining to those who do the naming and shaming, it almost certainly results in distress, fear and even harm to the person(s) on the receiving end.
In July 2025, Malaysia amended [1] the Penal Code to criminalise such behaviour. The new Section 507E now criminalises the act of “doxxing”, which is the disclosure of another person’s identity information if it’s done without their consent, with the intent or knowledge that it is likely to cause harassment, distress, fear, or harm. Harm includes reputational harm [2]. Anyone found guilty can be jailed up to three years, fined, or both.
A common scenario would be someone discovers another person’s infidelity and vents publicly on social media, posting that person’s photo, full name, or even their workplace, accompanied by remarks like “make him viral” or “expose him”.
This happened recently during a Coldplay concert in Boston USA, where a couple was shown cuddling up on the kiss cam [3]. A concertgoer filmed the moment and uploaded it online. But things escalated when social media users began digging and identifying both people in the video clip, sharing names, photos and even workplace information. It turns out the couple were prominent corporate individuals married to other people. It then escalated to mocking, tagging and shaming the individuals in the video clip for infidelity.
Such public exposure may constitute doxxing under Section 507E if the event took place in Malaysia. It is important to remember that under Section 507E, it is not just the motive that matters, but also the effect. Even truthful stories can cross the line into a criminal offence when identity information is shared and leads to harassment.
Being wronged or righteous doesn’t give one the right to go public with someone’s personal information. Even if the story is true, one can be held responsible if the post leads to harassment.
So, think before you post. What goes viral may and can become a crime.
[1] Penal Code (Amendment) Act 2025
[2] Section 507G Penal Code
[3] https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jul/19/coldplay-couple-ceo-andy-byron-resigns/
About the Author
Debbie Moo Jie Ying is a Pupil-in-Chambers of XK Law. She graduated from University of London. Debbie enjoys travelling and spending her time dancing away her stress during her leisure time.
Disclaimer: This post is not intended as a solicitation, is not legal advice, and is not a substitute for obtaining legal advice. You should not act upon any such information without first seeking qualified professional counsel on your specific matter
