This short how-to guide sets out the steps a journalist should take when dealing with story leaks and tip-offs. The first is to check out the source.
While receiving a leaked document or a secret tip-off provides a thrilling opportunity to break an exclusive story, journalists must proceed with caution. It’s vital to handle such material carefully by critically evaluating the leaker’s motives.
The following checklist is based on the article ‘Handling story leaks and tip-offs’ by Nicholas Jones, which we recommend you read before using the checklist below.
Story leaks and tip-offs checklist
- [ ] Verify the identity of the source
Always try to find out who is giving you the information and what their motive might be. Knowing why someone is leaking information helps you understand if they have a personal grudge or a hidden agenda. - [ ] Check the facts independently
Never rely solely on the leak. Use the tip-off as a starting point to find other documents, witnesses, or data that prove the story is true. - [ ] Protect your source at all costs
If you promise to keep someone’s identity secret, you must honour that promise. Think carefully about how you communicate with them and avoid using digital tools that can be easily tracked. - [ ] Assess the public interest
Ask yourself if the information is something the public needs to know. Journalism should serve the people, not just provide gossip or settle private scores. - [ ] Consult your editor early
Dealing with leaks can be legally and ethically difficult. Always talk to your senior editors to ensure the news organisation can support you if there are any legal problems. - [ ] Give the subject a chance to respond
Before you publish, contact the person or organisation the leak is about. This is a basic rule of fairness and helps ensure your story is accurate. - [ ] Keep your evidence safe
Store any leaked documents or recordings in a secure place. This protects both your story and your source from people who might want to stop the information from being published. - [ ] Consider the timing
Sometimes a source wants a story published at a specific time for their own benefit. Make sure the timing of your report is based on when the story is ready and when it is best for your audience.
Ultimately, handling leaks and tip-offs is a high-stakes balancing act between the thrill of an exclusive and the heavy responsibility of ethical reporting. While these opportunities can define a journalist’s career and set the public agenda, they require rigorous skepticism, a thorough vetting of the source’s motives, and an unwavering commitment to the public interest.
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