Technology moves fast—sometimes faster than the law. But in Texas, legislators have taken big steps to catch up with the darker side of digital behavior. As of September 1, 2023, several key updates to the Texas Penal Code make it explicitly illegal to engage in certain types of online and privacy-invading conduct, including doxing, deepfaking, and voyeurism.
These aren’t just buzzwords—they’re crimes. And if you’re on the receiving end of one of these violations, or being accused of committing one, the consequences can be serious. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Doxing Under Texas Law?
Texas Penal Code § 42.074 criminalizes the act of doxing—sharing someone’s personal, private, or identifying information online with the intent to harass, embarrass, or harm them. This can include names, phone numbers, home addresses, employment details, or any other sensitive data.
Hypothetical: After a messy custody dispute, someone posts the other parent’s home address and employer details in a public Facebook group, encouraging others to “flood their inbox” or “call their boss.”
This isn’t just a bad decision. In Texas, that’s now a criminal offense.
What Are Deepfakes and Why Are They Illegal?
Texas Penal Code § 21.165 prohibits the creation or distribution of fake intimate images or videos (deepfakes) that appear to show a real person in a sexual situation—without their consent and with intent to cause harm, defraud, or intimidate. This includes AI-generated nudes, altered videos, or misleading media shared online or privately with malicious intent.
Real-Life Example: In 2023, a Texas high school student used AI to fabricate a nude image of a classmate and shared it on Snapchat. The case went viral—and led to felony charges under this very statute.
In adult situations, deepfakes are often used in revenge scenarios after a breakup or divorce—something we unfortunately see in high-conflict family law cases.
What Is Voyeurism in Texas?
Texas Penal Code § 21.17(a) defines voyeurism as observing (or recording) someone without their consent, for sexual gratification, in a space where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy—such as a bathroom, bedroom, or changing area.
While it may start as a misdemeanor, voyeurism charges can escalate to felonies when they involve minors or repeat offenses.
Example: A landlord installs a hidden camera in a tenant’s bathroom or bedroom. Even if no images are shared, just the act of recording is a violation—and a criminal charge.
Custody Hypothetical: If a co-parent is discovered secretly recording you in your home or using a child’s device to track your movements, that could fall under this statute—and significantly affect your custody case.
Why This Matters in Family Law
These crimes aren’t just criminal matters—they often show up in the middle of family disputes, especially in divorce, custody, or protective order situations.
Whether you’re the victim of doxing or digital abuse, or being accused of it during a custody dispute, your legal rights and your case outcomes are at risk.
At Griffith Law Office, we’ve seen firsthand how modern threats can disrupt already fragile family dynamics. That’s why we stay up to date on evolving Texas law—so you don’t have to. We help you protect your rights, your children, and your digital footprint.
How Griffith Law Office Can Help
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If you’ve been doxed, deepfaked, or secretly recorded – we can guide you in taking civil and protective legal action, or working alongside law enforcement if needed.
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If you're facing allegations of digital misconduct in a divorce or custody case, we can help you understand your rights, defend your interests, and pursue a resolution that protects your future.
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If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies, we can review your evidence confidentially and explain your options.
We know how personal these cases are. That’s why we handle them with the discretion, compassion, and clarity our clients deserve.
This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you believe you are a victim or have been accused of doxing, deepfake distribution, or voyeurism, you should consult directly with a licensed attorney. Griffith Law Office serves clients throughout Smith County and East Texas.
