As journalists confront increasing threats — from commercial spyware to subpoenas, raids and device seizures by law enforcement — the question is no longer whether they should take digital security seriously, but how prepared they should be when these situations arise.
The FBI’s January raid on the home of Washington Post reporter Hannah Natanson — during which agents confiscated her phone, two laptops and her Garmin watch — served as a jarring reminder to many U.S.-based journalists that they need to think more seriously about safeguarding sources and sensitive materials in the current political climate. Many international journalists are accustomed to such threats, but increasingly, members of the media everywhere need working knowledge of best practices, advanced planning and clear cybersecurity strategies.
A virtual Nieman-to-Nieman seminar in February, moderated by Henry Chu, Nieman’s interim curator, featured digital security experts and a Nieman alum with experience in high-stakes investigations. The speakers outlined ways that journalists can better assess risk, secure their devices and continue reporting safely.
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