Undercover report, when done responsibly, can expose a wide range of wrongdoing, from the abuse of vulnerable people to the mismanagement and corruption of powerful organizations. However, the technique is dangerous and complex, requiring careful planning and extensive ethical consideration. It should be considered a last resort, used only when no other method is available.
In addition to legal advice, journalists should consult outside advisors who can help them decide if an undercover project is appropriate, discuss acceptable strategies and publishable facts, and ensure that the project does not put children or vulnerable groups in danger or deny vital services to real people. Journalists should also make sure that their plan includes a way to end the operation and get out of harm’s way without damaging their credibility or exposing themselves. Journalists should not disclose to anyone other than their team that they are undercover and keep a list of trusted contacts who can reach them in an emergency, as well as an escape plan.
In countries with weak or nonexistent public record transparency laws, going undercover can be the only way to uncover critical information about a public interest issue. But the tactic can have lasting effects, including a heavy emotional toll for reporters who remain undercover and the possibility that they will face blowback from their sources once they are exposed as reporters. Even when journalists follow strict guidelines, such as avoiding harm to children and adults, they risk being put in life-threatening situations or accused of entrapment.