We often talk to journalists about likely attacks from trolls. One of the most common ways trolls get your personal data (e.g., email, phone number) is through data brokers. If you haven't already, it's a very good time to invest in a data broker opt-out service (e.g., DeleteMe, Optery).

Something concrete we can do right now to protect journalists and their sources in 2025: Tell your reps to pass the PRESS Act. Nationwide, the PRESS Act expands protections for journalists from government requests on forcibly giving up confidential sources. We can pass this! Contact your reps here:

PeoplePower.org

Take action, join our fight for rights and freedom

Take action with ACLU People Power!

For no reason, fun reminder, Incognito and private browsing mode can only protect data (e.g., browsing history) locally on your device. Third parties can still see your browsing traffic just fine. Learn more about what private browsing does and does not protect: https://mshelton.medium.com/what-does-private-browsing-mode-do-adfe5a70a8b1

Okay, so you're using @Signal for encrypted messaging. Cool. It's a good time to use usernames instead of a phone number to talk to people. That and lots more about how to make the most of Signal's security features in here:

Freedom of the Press

Locking down Signal

Also available in Spanish.

I don't really have any words that can meet this moment. One small thing I can offer is digital security assistance to people at risk. Most of my experience is supporting journalists and media activists with security. If this in any way overlaps with your needs, reach out:

Martin Shelton