Dogequest has sparked major privacy concerns after allegedly leaking the personal information of Tesla owners across the U.S. The website, which appeared amid protests against Elon Musk, shows names, addresses, and phone numbers of Tesla drivers on an interactive map. Even more troubling, the site features a Molotov cocktail icon as a cursor, hinting at potential calls for violence. This controversy has raised serious questions about data security, online activism, and the risks Tesla owners might now face.
What Is Dogequest and Why Is It Causing Concern?
Dogequest is an anonymous website that claims to promote “creative expressions of protest.” However, it does so by exposing private details of Tesla owners, Tesla dealerships, and even employees of a government agency connected to Elon Musk. As reported by 404 Media, the site offers a searchable database of Tesla drivers and their alleged locations, though some of the data is unverified.
The operators of Dogequest defend their actions by saying that Tesla owners can have their information removed—only if they provide proof that they’ve sold their vehicles. This condition has caused outrage, with many accusing the site of digital blackmail.
How Dogequest Gained Attention
Dogequest first made headlines on March 17, 2025, as anti-Tesla protests were growing across the country. Shortly after the site became known, incidents of vandalism and arson targeted Tesla properties nationwide, raising concerns that the website might be encouraging real-world attacks.
One of the most alarming incidents took place in Las Vegas, where a masked individual set five Tesla vehicles on fire with Molotov cocktails at a service center. The individual spray-painted the word “RESIST” on the facility’s front door, signaling a politically motivated attack. In other incidents, two Tesla Cybertrucks burned in Kansas City, and an arsonist accidentally injured himself while setting a Tesla charging station on fire in South Carolina.
Tesla Owners’ Reactions to the Data Leak
Tesla owners are understandably worried about their safety. Many fear they could become targets simply for owning a Tesla. Experts in cybersecurity warn that doxxing—when personal information is exposed online—can have serious consequences, such as harassment, identity theft, or even physical harm. Some Tesla owners have reported the leak to authorities and are taking steps to protect their personal information.
The Backlash Against Tesla and Elon Musk
Tesla has faced increasing backlash recently, with much of it linked to Elon Musk’s political involvement. His close ties to former President Donald Trump and his support for government spending cuts have made him a divisive figure. Protests have been held across the country, with demonstrators calling for a boycott of Tesla. In New York City, around 250 activists gathered outside a Tesla showroom, chanting slogans like “Musk Must Go” and “Block Fascism Now.” The protest ended with multiple arrests, reflecting the growing tension surrounding the company.
Additionally, Tesla’s stock price has seen a significant drop, falling more than 50% since the fall election. Investor Ross Gerber has criticized Musk, stating that his political actions are damaging Tesla’s reputation and hurting its sales. “Sales are plummeting. It’s a crisis. You literally can’t sell the best product in the marketplace because the CEO is so divisive,” Gerber said in an interview.
With federal agencies now investigating Dogequest, the operators of the website may soon face legal action. The main question is whether they violated any data protection laws by publishing Tesla owners’ private information. Meanwhile, experts are urging those affected to keep an eye on their personal data and report any suspicious activity.