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Power Lens Bangladesh

Source Protection

How Power Lens protects the people who give us information, and what we cannot promise.

People who give us information can face real risks. Protecting them is one of our first duties.

What we commit to

  • We keep identities confidential. We do not reveal a source's identity without their informed consent.
  • We collect only what we need. The less we hold, the less can be lost or taken.
  • We limit who knows. Only the people who need to know a source's identity are told.
  • We assess the risk. For each source we consider what could happen to them, and we plan to reduce it.
  • We protect them in publication. We may change or leave out details that could identify a source, and we check drafts for this before publication.
  • We keep it secure. Source information is stored using encryption and access controls. [TO ADD: the tools and practices you use]

Anonymous sources

We grant anonymity only in the cases set out in our methodology. An editor reviews every decision.

What we cannot promise

The law may not fully protect journalists' sources, and we cannot guarantee how a court or authority will act. If we are legally compelled to reveal a source, we will challenge the demand where it is lawful and sensible to do so, and we will tell the source first where we are able. We cannot promise that the source will never be identified by other means, for example because of who had access to the information.

If you are thinking of sharing information

These steps lower your risk.

  • Use a secure channel. See our whistleblower portal.
  • Avoid using work devices, work email or work networks.
  • Think about who else has the same document. Unique copies or watermarks can lead back to you.
  • Remove personal details and hidden data from files where you can.
  • Do not discuss what you plan to do with colleagues.
  • Consider getting legal advice first.

How we handle material

We keep source material securely, and we delete what we no longer need. [TO ADD: retention and deletion practice] Staff are trained in secure handling.

Related policies

Whistleblower protection, privacy, investigation methodology.