Doxxing reveals the need for watchdog journalism
The article How to Deter Doxxing reveals an issue that I have never heard of before. Doxxing is a form of online harassment, "the practice of publicly posting private information (home address, phone numbers, credit card and Social Security details) which can be used to threaten or otherwise harass an individual." Journalists are some of the main targets of doxxing because of their opinionated articles and other social media posts.
vial text messages- false 911 calls- threatening emails- photos of dead bodies- rape threats
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lesser threats sickening threats
What may be missing and found as journalists turn to the web for investigative journalism? For most of societal issues, support systems, and overall information, society has turned to the internet for solutions. Whether it be from a journalists news article, the actual news, or simply finding support from others, the internet is the central hub of communication and information sharing. This leaves many internet users vulnerable because of the personal information shared online.
Journalists are able to uncover important and vital, inside information that pertains to their articles and investigative reporting. Unfortunately, sometimes the truth hurts. When uncovered, or revealing, information is published it is not always read or interpreted in the most positive light. Those readers who are unimpressed then have a tendency to lash out, the result: doxxing. Mostly because it has no consequences, the internet is used as a protective veil.
Doxxing is an extremely important issue because investigative journalists informing the public on stories and events, even people, are being inappropriately reprimanded for their jobs.
"Journalists think a lot about protecting their sources, building security tools and secure methods of communication. But when it comes to their own safety, reporters are often stuck with a strange dilemma. They have to have open channels of communication to speak with sources and get information, but that can also put them at risk for harassment. As doxxing continues, newsrooms are starting to re-examine their security systems and the support networks in place for reporters. Though many newsrooms still struggle with how to respond to harassers, there are a few strategies media companies can employ to deter doxxing."
Unfortunately it is becoming all too common of a practice. And we know it is happening because of stories like Rose's. She had written a post about a poll on vocabulary that should be banned. After receiving requests for the word "feminist" she called 4chan "the internet's home for barely potty-trained trolls." Although not the most professional response,"Users of the site did not take kindly to the characterization, so they posted her address and plotted to send her everything from pizza and vacuum cleaners to potential rapists and a SWAT team."
Another doxxing victim named Nathan Mattise, was bombarded with emails, pizzas, Chick Fil-A food and 50 copies of the Koran. Doxxing is trending and it is important for law enforcement and lawyers to take the threats and harassment seriously in order to protect these journalists.
If I were to write a watchdog journalist piece, I would love to investigate consumer protection for beauty products. It is important for women to know consequences and side effects of the products they are using, especially if society is the one pressuring them into using beauty products so religiously.
The role of watchdog journalism is extremely important. It is like having a truthful news station to watch on television. One that provides truthful information and insights into current issues and events. Without correct information or the work of investigative journalists, people can easily go numb to the goings on of the world.
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