Unnamed Sources Policy
Last updated: April 19, 2026
Our Approach to Confidential Sources
Botmarket prefers to identify all sources in our reporting. However, we recognize that some important stories can only be told with the protection of source confidentiality. This policy outlines when and how we use unnamed sources.
When We Use Unnamed Sources
We grant confidentiality only when:
- The information is newsworthy and in the public interest
- The information cannot be obtained through on-the-record sources
- The source faces genuine risk (employment, legal, or safety) if identified
- The source has direct knowledge of the information
We do not grant confidentiality for:
- Personal attacks or unsubstantiated allegations
- Information that serves only the source's interests
- Routine company information that should be on the record
Verification Standards
Information from unnamed sources must meet higher verification standards:
- We verify the source's identity and position
- We assess the source's credibility and potential biases
- We corroborate information with documents or additional sources when possible
- We give subjects of reporting the opportunity to respond
How We Describe Sources
When using unnamed sources, we provide as much context as possible without compromising confidentiality:
Good: "According to a senior engineer at the company who was directly involved in the project..."
Good: "Three former employees, speaking on condition of anonymity due to non-disclosure agreements..."
Avoid: "According to sources..." (too vague)
We explain why the source requires confidentiality when relevant to reader understanding.
Editorial Oversight
All stories relying significantly on unnamed sources require editorial approval before publication. Editors review:
- The justification for confidentiality
- The source's credibility and knowledge
- The verification process
- Whether the story serves the public interest
Protecting Sources
We take source protection seriously:
- Source identities are known only to the reporter and editor
- We use secure communication channels for sensitive conversations
- We do not retain identifying information in our systems
- We will defend source confidentiality in legal proceedings
Transparency About Limitations
When reporting relies on unnamed sources, we acknowledge limitations:
- We note when we cannot independently verify claims
- We include responses from subjects of reporting
- We update stories as additional information becomes available
Contact Us Confidentially
If you have information about the robotics industry that you believe is newsworthy:
Secure Email: tips@botmarket24.com (PGP key available on request)
Signal: Available on request
Mail: Botmarket, ul. PrzykΕadowa 123, 00-001 Warsaw, Poland
We will discuss confidentiality terms before you share sensitive information.