Source Protection & Whistleblower Policy

Effective Date: March 4, 2026

Littleton Reporter recognizes the important role that confidential sources and whistleblowers play in informing the public about matters of civic concern. Individuals who provide information in good faith may help bring attention to issues affecting government transparency, public safety, community services, and other matters of public interest. This policy outlines how Littleton Reporter approaches the protection of sources and the handling of sensitive information.

1. Commitment to Source Protection

Littleton Reporter will make reasonable efforts to protect the identity of confidential sources who request anonymity. This may include:

(a) withholding a source’s name from publication
(b) limiting the internal disclosure of identifying information
(c) removing identifying details from published materials when appropriate
(d) protecting communications to the extent permitted by law
 

Confidential sources are an established part of journalistic practice and may be used when information is of legitimate public interest.

2. Anonymous and Confidential Submissions

Individuals may submit information to Littleton Reporter through several communication channels, including:

(a) the File A Report submission system on the Littleton Reporter website
(b) direct phone calls or text messages to the newsroom
(c) email communication with the newsroom
(d) private messages through the Littleton Reporter Facebook page
(e) secure messaging through the Signal application

Newsroom contact information:

Phone / Text / Signal: (603) 684-6384
Email: editor@littletonreporter.com

Individuals who wish to remain confidential should clearly indicate that preference when submitting information. Littleton Reporter may communicate with the source to determine how their information may be used while protecting their identity. Individuals who wish to remain confidential should clearly indicate that preference when submitting information. Littleton Reporter may communicate with the source to determine how their information may be used while protecting their identity.

3. Verification of Information

Littleton Reporter seeks to verify information obtained from confidential sources whenever possible.

Information provided by anonymous or confidential sources may be:

(a) corroborated with documents or records
(b) confirmed through additional sources
(c) reviewed against publicly available information
 

Littleton Reporter may decline to publish information that cannot be reasonably verified.

4. Handling of Sensitive Documents

Individuals sometimes provide documents, records, or other materials relevant to public interest reporting.

When such materials are received, Littleton Reporter may:

(a) review the materials for authenticity
(b) redact sensitive personal information where appropriate
(c) evaluate whether publication serves the public interest
 

Possession or receipt of documents does not guarantee publication.

5. Legal Limitations

While Littleton Reporter will make reasonable efforts to protect confidential sources, there are legal limits to confidentiality. In certain circumstances, courts or legal authorities may compel the disclosure of information through lawful processes. Littleton Reporter cannot guarantee absolute confidentiality beyond what is permitted under applicable law.

6. Responsible Whistleblowing

Individuals providing information should ensure that submissions are made in good faith and are based on truthful information. Littleton Reporter does not encourage or condone:

(a) the submission of knowingly false information
(b) unlawful acquisition of information
(c) harassment or retaliation against individuals
 

Whistleblower submissions should focus on matters of legitimate public concern.

7. Secure Communication

Electronic communication methods such as email and web forms are not completely secure.

Individuals concerned about anonymity should consider limiting the amount of identifying information included in submissions. Littleton Reporter will take reasonable steps to handle submitted information responsibly once it is received.

8. Editorial Discretion

All information provided to Littleton Reporter is subject to editorial review.

Littleton Reporter retains full discretion regarding:

(a) whether information will be investigated
(b) whether information will be published
(c) how sources will be described in reporting
 

Submission of information does not guarantee publication.

9. Contact

Individuals wishing to provide information related to matters of public interest may contact:

Littleton Reporter
editor@littletonreporter.com
littletonreporter.com