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. PrzykΕ‚adowa 123, 00-001 Warsaw, Poland

We will discuss confidentiality terms before you share sensitive information.

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