Whistleblower How To

The left-leaning news site The Intercept has published a primer on "How to Leak Under the Trump Administration," advising federal employees on best practices for communicating with the press outside official channels.  

The article discusses the risks whistleblowers face when exposing wrongdoing within the U.S. government, particularly under former President Donald Trump, who has demonstrated hostility toward leaks and whistleblowers. The Trump administration conducted secret surveillance to identify leakers and sought journalists’ communication records through subpoenas and court orders.

To minimize risks, the article advises whistleblowers against using standard communication methods, such as phone calls, text messages, emails, and social media, as these can expose metadata that links sources to journalists. Instead, it recommends using encrypted messaging apps like Signal and Session, which limit metadata collection. However, even encrypted tools are not foolproof, and operational security (OPSEC) remains essential.

Key OPSEC practices include avoiding whistleblower communications on work devices or networks, refraining from taking screenshots of sensitive documents, and ensuring that leaked materials do not contain identifiable digital fingerprints. Additionally, whistleblowers should delete chat histories and avoid saving journalists’ contact details.

The article emphasizes that whistleblowing carries significant risks, including job loss and prosecution. However, following these security measures can help mitigate exposure while revealing government misconduct.

[FYI, the author is on Signal at fruffing.38]