Umgang mit sicherheitssensiblen Quellen. Risiken und ethische Herausforderungen
Abstract
Many journalists work (consciously or unconsciously) in security-sensitive contexts. This may be because they 1) communicate with sources who are particularly vulnerable, 2) meet with individuals who could potentially become violent or already have been, or 3) leave digital traces that could be used against them. This article addresses these three scenarios, draws on practical examples, and introduces the concept of security-sensitive sources. It aims to raise awareness of the importance of considering the consequences of professional actions in security-sensitive contexts at an early stage and making ethically sound decisions. Physical, psychological, and digital security must all be taken into account.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Journalism and Media Studies
News Media Framing and Political Communication
Qualitative Research Methods and Ethics
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Communicatio Socialis
- Volume
- 59
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- 39–51
- Publication date
- 1 January 2026
- Language
- EN