Secret subpoenas targeting journalists raise concerns about source protection

Administrative subpoenas used to seek journalists’ phone and online account records can threaten confidential sources, Freedom of the Press Foundation warns in a new explainer. Caitlin Vogus examines demands directed at records associated with Georgia Fort and Don Lemon, describing how Homeland Security Investigations used customs summonses known as 1509 summonses to seek information without advance judicial approval.

The foundation says phone records can reveal reporting relationships even without the contents of conversations, while requests for secrecy can leave journalists unaware their information was sought. The article reviews previously disclosed cases and argues for stronger safeguards from Congress and technology companies. It is an explanation of an ongoing press-freedom concern, rather than an announcement of a new subpoena issued Monday.

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