Maryland University dean added to cyber security event, March 13

A panel of reporters and cyber security professionals will offer tips to journalists on safeguarding their digital communications March 13, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the First Amendment Lounge. The event is part of the National Press Club's annual celebration of Sunshine Week.

Registration required; $5 for NPC members and $10 for general public.Register here.

The days when cyber security practices could reasonably be looked upon as an optional work skill for journalists are behind us. In the first weeks of the Trump administration, an unprecedented spate of leaks to news outlets such as The New York Times and The Washington Post has led to demands from President Ddonald Trump to identify and crack down on those anonymous officials leaking to the press.

The seemingly increased willingness among U.S. officials to disclose sensitive information to reporters and the administration's threats to punish would-be leakers serve to highlight the responsibility that journalists have to protect their anonymous sources, beginning from the very first point of contact.

Confirmed panelists include:

Emma Garrison-Alexander, Vice Dean Cybersecurity Graduate Program, University of Maryland University College

Jack Gillum, investigative reporter for the Associated Press

Dithad Othman, digital security advisor at Internews Network

Rachel Oswald, vice chair of the NPCJI’s Press Freedom Committee and a reporter for CQ Roll Call, will moderate

This event is co-sponsored by the National Press Club Journalism Institute’s Press Freedom and Professional Development committees.