A master class on privacy and data protection for journalists

PROPOSED TOPIC: Understanding the risks of data breaches and privacy violations in journalism.

COURSE OVERVIEW

A master class on Privacy and Data Protection for Journalists will cover various aspects of protecting personal data and privacy while working as a journalist. With the rise of digital journalism and social media, the collection, use, and protection of personal data have become increasingly important for journalists.

TOPICS TO BE COVERED

a) An overview of privacy and data protection laws and regulations; This will also ethical considerations involved in handling personal data. Journalists need to understand how to obtain, use, and disclose personal data without violating the law or compromising their journalistic integrity.

b) Specific tools and techniques for protecting privacy and data; This could include secure communication tools, such as encrypted email and messaging apps, virtual private networks (VPNs), and anonymous browsing. Journalists will also learn about secure data storage and backup, as well as techniques for securing their devices, such as strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and secure erasure of data.

c) How to report on data breaches and protect sources while maintaining their anonymity; This will include how to use secure drop systems, such as the SecureDrop platform, which allows sources to upload sensitive documents securely and anonymously.

d) How to use data ethically and responsibly in journalism; This will involve understanding how to collect, verify, and analyze data, while respecting privacy and data protection laws. Journalists will also need to learn how to interpret data in a way that is clear, accurate, and fair to all parties involved.

e) Case studies and practical examples of how to apply these principles in real-world scenarios.This would give journalists the opportunity to practice applying the principles of privacy and data protection to their work.

In summary, a master class on Privacy and Data Protection for Journalists will equip journalists with the tools and techniques they need to protect personal data and privacy while performing their duties. It will also provide them with a better understanding of the ethical considerations involved in using personal data in journalism, helping them to work more effectively and responsibly in an increasingly digital and data-driven world.