You're investigating a whistleblower's story. How do you safeguard their identity?

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When you're handed a story by a whistleblower, the weight of their trust rests on your shoulders. Protecting their identity is not just a matter of professional integrity, but a serious commitment to their safety and the principles of free speech. As a journalist, you must navigate the delicate balance between transparency and confidentiality to ensure that the truth can be told without causing harm to your source.

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Simon J Smith

Cybercrime Expert Witness, Digital Forensic Investigator, Cybersecurity, IT/Software, CAM/CEM, Scams, Digital Fraud…

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Jeremy Bonken

MBA Kaplan Business School
Kaif Shaikh

Digital Media | Journalism | Project Management

1 Secure Channels

To begin with, it's crucial to communicate through secure channels. Encourage your source to use encrypted messaging apps or email services that offer end-to-end encryption . This means that only you and your source can read what's being sent. Avoid phone calls or text messages, which can be easily intercepted. For in-person meetings, choose discreet locations and be aware of surveillance cameras or eavesdropping devices. Your diligence in these initial interactions sets the stage for a secure exchange of information.

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Simon J Smith

Cybercrime Expert Witness, Digital Forensic Investigator, Cybersecurity, IT/Software, CAM/CEM, Scams, Digital Fraud, Software 23+ yrs, CCISO CFE CCE CHFI MCSD/E PRINCE2/P CEH CAMS PSM CCSM COBIT5 ITIL CBP HTCIA IEEE FDRP
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Communication over IP has its own risks. Every packet needs to be encrypted. Don't just trust your messaging app. Check out the source code, compile it and ensure for yourself.

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Jeremy Bonken

MBA Kaplan Business School
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- Never use their name, gender, location in any correspondence or discussion. - Any identifying information can be left with your lawyer for handing to the Police if the need arises. - Do not engage with a Whistleblower situation unless you are specifically covered by the entity’s formal and published ‘for all to see’ Whistleblowers Policy and Procedure. Strictly adhere to the Policy and Procedure without exception. - Be very sure you understand the challenge of being involved in a Whistleblower event / investigation. - Take the Policy and Procedure with you when seeking legal advice about how to protect yourself. - Be prepared to see the worst of behaviour by those who know better.

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Ridham Ahuja

Versatile Professional with Diverse Skills
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Protecting whistleblowers is a sacred trust! I employ secure communication channels, encrypted files, and careful documentation. I also use anonymizing techniques, conceal identities in reporting, and vigorously resist disclosure demands. By safeguarding their anonymity, I empower truth-tellers to share crucial information, holding power accountable.

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2 Anonymity Tools

Your source may need to remain anonymous. In this case, familiarize yourself with tools that can help. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) can mask their IP address, and the Tor browser can help anonymize web activity. Teach your source how to use these tools effectively. For document sharing, consider platforms that don't require personal information for account creation. Remember, the more layers of anonymity you can provide, the safer your source will be.

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Kaif Shaikh

Digital Media | Journalism | Project Management
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Always use secure, encrypted communication tools when dealing with confidential sources. Platforms like Signal for messaging and Tutanota for emails provide strong encryption, so you and your source can access the content of your communications discreetly. Some other tools that might come in handy: - ProtonMail - PGP (Pretty Good Privacy) - Wickr - Silent Phone App

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3 Legal Counsel

Understanding the legal protections available to your source is essential. In some jurisdictions, laws may shield whistleblowers from retaliation . However, these laws vary widely, so consult with legal counsel who specializes in whistleblower cases. They can offer advice on how to legally protect your source and whether certain information should be withheld to avoid legal repercussions. Always keep your source informed about the potential legal risks.

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4 Data Hygiene

Be meticulous about data hygiene. This means keeping all information related to your source encrypted and stored securely, with backups in different locations if necessary. Use strong passwords and consider two-factor authentication for an additional layer of security. Regularly update your software to protect against vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers. And once the story is published, be sure to delete any sensitive information that could compromise your source's identity.

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5 Editorial Policies

Your news organization's editorial policies should include procedures for handling whistleblower information. These policies should outline how to verify the credibility of the information provided while maintaining confidentiality. Ensure that all members of your team understand these policies and are committed to upholding them. This collective responsibility helps prevent accidental leaks and ensures that everyone is working towards the same goal of protecting your source.

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6 Communication Strategy

Finally, develop a communication strategy with your source for after the story is published. Decide how you'll stay in contact and what you'll do if their identity comes under threat. Be prepared to support your source through any backlash or challenges that may arise. This ongoing commitment reinforces the trust between you and your whistleblower, and it upholds the journalistic principle of source protection long after the story has made headlines.

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You're investigating a whistleblower's story. How do you safeguard their identity?

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1 Secure Channels

2 Anonymity Tools

3 Legal Counsel

4 Data Hygiene

5 Editorial Policies

6 Communication Strategy

Journalism

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