Welcome to Module 1 of the Sensitive Source Safety Training. Sources reach out through various channels, each with its own security profile. Let’s examine the most common first contact scenarios and their specific vulnerabilities.
Abstract
The first interaction with a source is often the most vulnerable moment. Messages may arrive by phone, social media, or email—channels that are rarely secure. This module equips you with the skills to recognise the risks of first contact, establish safer communication quickly, and build trust without alienating sources.
About this module
Whether a source reaches out through an unexpected call, a direct message, or a letter, your immediate response shapes both their safety and yours. Early exchanges are prone to surveillance and metadata exposure, yet they set the tone for the relationship. How do you transition from unsafe channels to secure ones without losing the source’s confidence? What risks are unique to first contact, and how can you mitigate them? And how do you explain security protocols to people who may have little technical knowledge?
This module addresses these challenges with expert guidance, case studies, and interactive exercises.
What do I learn?
You will learn how to:
- Understand the vulnerabilities of different first-contact channels.
- Transition conversations into secure spaces using trust-building language.
- Manage metadata and digital trace risks.
- Explain security principles clearly to non-technical sources.
- Establish consistent protocols that protect sources while building strong working relationships.
What do I need to know
This module is suitable for journalists who may be contacted by sensitive sources or whistleblowers. No prior technical expertise is required.
About the teachers: This module is presented by Delphine Halgand-Mishra, the Founding Executive Director of The Signals Network (TSN). TSN former chief of staff Kate Miller created these modules. Since 2017, The Signals Network has provided support and protection to hundreds of sensitive sources.
About The Signals Network: The Signals Network is a nonprofit organization that supports whistleblowers who disclose information in the public interest. It provides legal, psychological, physical safety, and advocacy assistance to help protect sources and amplify their disclosures.
About the Reynolds Journalism Institute: The Reynolds Journalism Institute is a journalism support organization based out of the University of Missouri that empowers journalists with knowledge, tools and funding to strengthen journalism through practical innovation.
Curriculum
- 5 Sections
- 13 Lessons
- 10 Weeks
- Intro and Assessment2
- The Vulnerability and Opportunity of First Contact4
- Secure Transition Strategies4
- Establishing Ongoing Security: Beyond First ContactAfter successfully transitioning a source to secure channels, maintaining that security becomes an ongoing responsibility. This section covers key practices for establishing consistent security protocols and communicating effectively with sources about security needs.3
- Post-Assessment: Assess What You've Learned3
Instructor
