CA AB1979

Creates a private civil cause of action against persons who "dox" another person by electronically distributing personal identifying information without consent with intent to place them in reasonable fear for their safety or incite third-party harassment.

Entitles prevailing plaintiffs to recover economic and noneconomic damages, statutory damages between $1,500 and $30,000, punitive damages, and attorney's fees upon court approval.

Allows plaintiffs to proceed using a pseudonym (John Doe/Jane Doe) and file confidential information forms to protect their identity, with courts required to keep plaintiff names and identifying characteristics confidential.

Exempts doxing injunction applicants from posting an undertaking bond otherwise required when seeking injunctions under Code of Civil Procedure Section 529.

Requires the Judicial Council to adopt rules and forms implementing pseudonym and confidentiality provisions by January 1, 2026; excludes law enforcement reporting and unlawful conduct reporting from liability.