Ethics Policy
Anonymous Sources
Anonymity is a shield for the vulnerable, not a weapon for cowards. It must be granted sparingly and only when the public interest of the information outweighs the lack of attribution.
The Three-Prong Test
Before granting anonymity, editors must ensure the source meets all three of the following criteria:
- Information is Critical: The information is vital to the story and not available on the record elsewhere.
- Clear Harm: The source faces demonstrable physical, legal, or severe professional retaliation if their identity is known.
- First-hand Knowledge: The source is providing factual, verifiable information, not opinion, speculation, or personal attacks.
Characterizing the Source
When an anonymous source is used, the reporter must characterize the source's access and motivation as explicitly as possible without revealing their identity.
Poor: "Sources say..."
Acceptable: "A senior defense official involved in the procurement process, who requested anonymity because they are not authorized to speak to the press..."