John Doe (generic placeholder)

"John Doe" is a name used as a placeholder for an unidentified or anonymous male person, especially in legal or official contexts. It allows organizations to refer to someone whose true identity is unknown, to protect privacy or facilitate discussion. Similar terms include "Jane Doe" for females, and placeholders like "John Smith" or "Jane Roe" are sometimes used. These labels help ensure processes, documents, or cases can proceed without knowing the person's real name, maintaining confidentiality until the individual is identified.