How To Contact A Journalist Without George Brandis Knowing

Metadata may seem scary, but that shouldn't stop you from contacting the media if you know something important. Here are 7 great options to help you safely and anonymously contact a journalist. And remember, If you see something, say something.

1. Find out if the journalist has a secure drop box

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Some media organisations (including The Guardian) have secure drop boxes linked to their websites. This allows you to confidently and securely provide information to journalists without revealing your identity. No downloading required.

2. Get an Encrypted email service.

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Cloaks on: the key to contacting journalists is to ensure you can't be seen. Encrypted computer software (such as GPG4Win) are great tools to keep your communication secure. However, both participants need the software, which may be problematic unless you can be sure the journalist has it too.

3. Download a VPN.

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Virtual Private Networks (VPN's) makes your IP address appear to be somewhere its not. If your looking at something on the internet which might raise suspicion, a VPN is crucial for taking your footprints off the virtual map.

4. Start Using Wickr

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Wickr works like any messaging service, except that messages aren't sent directly to the recipient, but rather to the Wickr server. This is great because it means the person your contacting won't appear on your metadata. No one will know who you're messaging.

5. Don't Call a Journalist!

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Unless you're using a payphone far, far away from where you live or work, don't call a journalist with your information. Phone calls can't be encrypted, and George Brandis will know you're getting in touch with a Journalist. And whilst some say Skype is a better alternative, it's very vulnerable too.

And Finally....Don't Be Afraid To Speak Up!

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Harry Potter didn't become famous for keeping quiet. He stood up for fairness and spoke out against misconduct by those in positions of power. If you see something, say something. It keeps the bastards honest.