névvadás

Névvadás, lit. name-hunting, is a term used in Hungarian media and discourse to describe the practice of trying to identify a person from limited information by collecting and cross-referencing clues from publicly available sources, social networks, and press coverage. The phrase is used to describe both journalistic and non-journalistic activity, and can range from routine investigative reporting to more invasive attempts to expose private individuals.

Etymology: the word combines név (name) and vadászat (hunting), conveying the sense of pursuing a name through clues, similar to hunting.

Usage: In journalism, name-hunting can help verify identities or uncover accountability in public-interest cases. In political or activist contexts, it can be used to reveal connections or affiliations of public figures or corporate actors. In everyday social media, it can occur as people attempt to determine who is behind anonymous accounts, often raising privacy concerns.

Ethics and law: The practice raises privacy and safety concerns, with potential harm, misidentification, and doxxing. In Hungary and the EU, personal data processing is governed by GDPR and national laws; improper handling can be illegal. Responsible use emphasizes consent, necessity, minimization, and secure handling.

See also: doxxing, data journalism, privacy, digital literacy.