Comedian Khairul Umam Targeted by Doxing: Understanding the Risks and How to Address It
An incident involving comedian Khairul Umam in February 2026 serves as an important reminder of the vulnerability of personal data in the digital realm. Doxing, or the illegal dissemination of personal data, is often used as a tool of intimidation against individuals who are vocal on social media.
Doxing originates from the word “docs” (documents), referring to the act of exposing and spreading someone’s identity or sensitive information without their consent. This information can include home addresses, private phone numbers, and even family member data. The motives vary, ranging from silencing opinions to physical threats.
Indonesia has established regulations to address this issue. According to the Personal Data Protection Law (UU PDP) No. 27 of 2022, individuals who illegally disseminate another person’s personal data can face criminal penalties of up to 4 years in prison and a maximum fine of IDR 4 billion.
In addition to the UU PDP, perpetrators can also be charged under the Electronic Information and Transactions Law (UU ITE) if the act is accompanied by threats of violence or defamation. Victims are strongly advised to bring digital evidence to the police (Cyber Crime) for legal processing.
To minimise future risks, start implementing the following digital hygiene practices:
Is doxing the same as defamation?
Different, but often related. Doxing focuses on the dissemination of personal data, while defamation focuses on attacking someone’s reputation.
What if the harassment extends to your home?
Immediately contact the nearest police station and request security protection if you feel your life is in danger.
Can data that has been spread be permanently deleted?
It is very difficult to completely erase digital traces, but you can submit a request for deletion to search engine providers such as Google through their legal forms. (E-4)
Starting with educational content about Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), Umam had to face serious threats targeting his family’s privacy.
A firefighter (Damkar) for the city of Depok and also a comedian, Khairul Umam, is now in the public spotlight.