Press Freedom panel on threats to journalists' online security, Oct. 24

What would you do if your computer had be hacked, exposing sensitive emails, sources, story research and interview notes? What if you learn your cell calls had been intercepted, potentially outing a confidential source?

Though digital technology has been an enormous boon to journalists, it also comes with significant security pitfalls. Journalists are particularly at risk due to the unique role they play in gathering and disseminating information.

The National Press Club’s Press Freedom Committee will hold a panel discussion to discuss these risks on Wednesday, Oct. 24 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Murrow Room. This event is free and open to the public.

Panelists are:

• Matthew Cole, a former producer for ABC News and an investigative journalist focusing who has experienced government surveillance as a result of his reporting activities.


• Joseph Hall, senior staff technologist at the Center for Democracy & Technology who focuses on policy mechanisms for encouraging trustworthiness and transparency in information systems.


• Jonathan Hutcheson, a public interest lawyer and journalist who designed and implemented a comprehensive source security platform for 100 Reporters’ Whistleblower Alley that enables the anonymous uploading of sensitive documents.

The Press Club is on the 13th floor, 529 14th Street, NW, Washington, D.C