How to responsibly leak information to the press

Key takeaways

Secure communication channels are essential for journalists to protect their sources and sensitive information.
Detailed and specific tips are more valuable than vague conspiracy theories.
Whistleblowers face real risks, but there are legal protections available for those exposing wrongdoing.
Understanding the potential consequences of leaking information is crucial for both sources and journalists.
Utilizing secure technology, like encrypted messaging services, can significantly enhance the safety of communication between whistleblowers and journalists.

Summary

Introduction

The episode dives into the recent media spotlight on the encrypted messaging app, Signal, especially following a concerning incident where U.S. defense officials accidentally included a high-profile journalist in a sensitive chat. This segues into a broader discussion about how to responsibly leak information to the press, examining the ethics and security measures that should be adhered to when communicating sensitive information.

The Importance of Secure Communication

The hosts, Ben and Amory, introduce Todd Wallach from WBUR, who highlights the vital role tips play in journalism. They discuss the balance between transparency and secrecy, emphasizing the necessity for journalists to maintain secure channels to safeguard sources, especially in today's climate marked by increased scrutiny and potential repercussions for whistleblowers.

Best Practices for Whistleblowers

Todd elaborates on the most effective and secure ways for potential sources to communicate with journalists, touching on methods such as using anonymous tips, secure email services like Proton Mail, and traditional mail. He warns against using work-related communication tools, which can easily compromise anonymity. Additionally, the importance of detailed, actionable information in tips is underscored.

Exploring the Risks of Leaking

The hosts and Todd discuss the inherent risks associated with leaking sensitive information, particularly focusing on high-profile cases like that of Reality Winner. They express concerns about the repercussions for whistleblowers and the importance of legal protections in place to support those who expose wrongdoing.

The Role of Technology in Safe Reporting

The conversation shifts to the technological side of secure reporting, where Todd discusses tools like encrypted messaging apps, highlighting Signal's effectiveness in protecting user anonymity. They also compare Signal to platforms like Reddit, raising questions about user privacy on online forums.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The episode wraps up with a reminder for listeners to reach out securely with their own stories or tips. It encourages the audience to communicate through the provided Signal number or secure email, reinforcing the value of audience engagement in journalism.

Show notes

Well, the messaging app Signal has been in the news recently, thanks to a snafu in which prominent federal defense officials mistakenly added The Atlantic's editor-in-chief, Jeffrey Goldberg, to a group chat in which they discussed military strikes in Yemen.

This whole situation reminds us of another conversation we've been having as a team about how to responsibly leak information to the press, and if there is such a thing as a "secure line."

To answer this question, we reached out to our WBUR colleague, investigative and data reporter Todd Wallack.

If you have a story you would like to share with us in a secure way, you can reach us on Signal (yes, Signal) at 646-456-9095 or email us at wbursecuretips@proton.me