In a troubling breach of journalistic ethics, New York Times reporter Natasha Frost has admitted to leaking data from a private WhatsApp group chat for Jewish professionals in Australia. The leaked information subsequently fell into the hands of pro-Palestinian activists, leading to widespread harassment of the group's members and sparking a national debate on doxing.
The Leak and Its Origins
Frost downloaded and shared about 900 pages of content from the private chat, which had over 600 members. The WhatsApp group was created in late October 2023 following the October 7 Hamas attacks, and was intended to provide support in an environment of heightened antisemitism.
As an early member of the group, Frost had access to discussions that occasionally veered into advocacy, including efforts to challenge perceived antisemitic comments by pro-Palestinian activists. In December, some group members shared a call-to-action regarding Antoinette Lattouf, a writer given a brief hosting gig by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).
Consequences of the Leak
The repercussions of the leak were severe and far-reaching. Hundreds of group participants had their personal information circulated online, leading to intense harassment. Joshua Moshe, a shop owner and group member, experienced threatening phone calls and emails. His family's gift shop in Melbourne was vandalized multiple times, forcing them to relocate their business. Even months later, they continue to face abusive comments and online harassment.
Siana Einfeld, a high-school teacher at a Jewish school in Melbourne, was accused of being "complicit in genocide." The threats she received were so severe that she installed security cameras in her home. Both Moshe and Einfeld contacted local police about the harassment.
The New York Times' Response
The New York Times has taken disciplinary action against Frost, who remains on staff. A Times spokeswoman stated that Frost's actions were "a clear violation of our ethics" and were done without the knowledge or approval of the Times. Frost apologized, saying she shared the document with one individual and its subsequent dissemination happened without her knowledge or consent.
Legal and Political Implications
The incident has prompted significant political action in Australia. The government announced plans to introduce anti-doxing legislation, with measures potentially including criminal penalties for doxing and giving individuals civil options to act against those who dox them.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the targeting of individuals based on religion or faith, stating, "This is not the Australia that we want to see." Attorney General Mark Dreyfus committed to combat doxing and strengthen privacy protections.
However, free-speech experts warn that overly broad anti-doxing laws could interfere with legitimate news gathering and dissemination. The challenge lies in balancing the need to protect individuals from online harassment with preserving essential freedoms.
* The Wall Street Journal and The New York Post contributed to this article.
