🛡️ Our Commitment to Source Protection

At Israel.com, we recognize that anonymous sources are sometimes essential to uncovering important stories, particularly in the complex political and security environment of the Middle East. Our unnamed sources policy balances the need for transparency with the protection of individuals who risk their safety, careers, or freedom to provide information in the public interest.

This policy outlines our rigorous standards for using anonymous sources, our verification processes, and our unwavering commitment to protecting those who trust us with sensitive information.

📋 When We Use Unnamed Sources

Justified Circumstances

• Government Accountability: When officials provide information about government actions, policies, or misconduct
• Security Matters: Information related to national security, intelligence operations, or military activities
• Whistleblowing: When sources expose wrongdoing, corruption, or violations of public trust
• Safety Concerns: When naming a source would put them at risk of harm, retaliation, or persecution
• Professional Consequences: When disclosure would result in job loss, career damage, or legal jeopardy
• Ongoing Investigations: Information about active legal or law enforcement proceedings

High Bar for Anonymity

• Last Resort: Anonymous sourcing is used only when on-the-record information is unavailable
• Significant Public Interest: The information must serve a clear public interest purpose
• Credible and Verifiable: Sources must have direct knowledge and information must be verifiable
• Multiple Confirmation: Key facts require confirmation from at least two independent sources
• Editorial Approval: All anonymous source usage requires approval from senior editorial staff

🔍 Verification Standards

Source Vetting Process

• Identity Verification: We verify the real identity of all anonymous sources to editorial management
• Access Assessment: We confirm sources have legitimate access to the information they provide
• Motivation Review: We understand and evaluate sources' motivations for providing information
• Track Record: We assess the reliability of sources based on past interactions and information quality
• Documentation: We require supporting documentation or evidence whenever possible

Information Verification

• Independent Confirmation: All significant claims require independent verification from separate sources
• Document Authentication: Any documents provided are verified for authenticity
• Cross-Reference Checking: Information is cross-referenced with public records and known facts
• Expert Consultation: Complex technical or specialized information is reviewed by relevant experts
• Fact-Checking: All claims undergo rigorous fact-checking before publication

🔒 Protection Measures

Technical Security

• Encrypted Communication: All sensitive communications use end-to-end encryption
• Secure Devices: Dedicated, secured devices for source communications when necessary
• Anonymous Contact Methods: Secure drop boxes and anonymous communication channels
• Data Protection: Source information stored on encrypted, air-gapped systems
• Access Controls: Strict access controls limiting who can view source information

Operational Security

• Meeting Protocols: Secure meeting locations and communication methods
• Information Compartmentalization: Source identities known only to essential personnel
• Document Handling: Secure handling and storage of physical evidence
• Digital Forensics: Removal of metadata and identifying information from documents
• Counter-Surveillance: Awareness and mitigation of potential surveillance risks