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What is it? A series of free educational videos for journalists, helping reporters learn how to protect their sources and keep communication private online.

Cost: Free

How is it of use to journalists? Journalists have a duty of care to their sources, and as most communication takes place online using a variety of apps and devices, it’s important to understand the risks of such tools when discussing sensitive information with somebody whose identity needs to be protected.

Thankfully, you don’t have to be a technologist or be able to code to start learning more about information security and the risks to which you or your sources might be exposed.

The Infosec Bytes project has created a series of educational videos explaining the key concepts, such as encryption and PGP, as well as tutorials for how to use certain tools, like the app Signal or the Tails operating system.


Infosec Bytes launched in April 2017, and the project’s team is based at The Centre for Investigative Journalism. It’s supported by a grant from the Reva and David Logan Foundation – the videos are free to watch and share online.

"The expansion of surveillance creates an inhospitable environment for journalists attempting to subject government to scrutiny in the public interest. Infosec Bytes will address these developments by catering to the urgent demand for information security skills and techniques within the profession," the announcement of the project’s launch explained.

Infosec Bytes is designed to teach journalists through a mix of contextual information and step-by-step instructions, and the tools and tips included aim to be as broadly applicable as possible, to suit a variety of situations and levels of technical knowledge.

If you are currently working on a sensitive story and are worried about your own online security or that of your sources, you should contact an expert on information security who can provide you with personalised advice.

If you would like to connect with others interested in online privacy or training in this field, you can also attend a CryptoParty in your area.

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