Off-the-record information
Off-the-record information refers to insights provided to news reporters with the explicit understanding that the details shared will not be published or broadcasted. This practice is significant as it allows individuals, often concerned about their safety, reputation, or job security, to share valuable information without the fear of it being attributed to them. Some sources may also provide information "on background," allowing reporters to use the information without disclosing the source's identity. It is critical for both journalists and sources to agree on the off-the-record status before the interview, as sources cannot retroactively impose this condition. While some journalists express concerns that sources may use off-the-record agreements to suppress news, many believe that such agreements do not prevent reporters from using the information to seek corroborating accounts from other sources. The adherence to these practices and definitions can vary across different journalists and news organizations, highlighting the importance of clear communication between reporters and their sources. Understanding these nuances is essential for anyone engaging with or consuming news media.
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Off-the-record information
- DEFINITION: Information given to news reporters with the understanding that it cannot be published or broadcast
- SIGNIFICANCE: News sources have been known to provide information off the record to inhibit its publication
Thousands of people willingly allow their names to be quoted in newspapers, broadcast news stories, and Internet articles every day. However, others refuse to talk to the press out of fear for their safety, reputations, or job security. However, these same people often agree to speak “off the record.” That is, they will talk with reporters on condition that the reporters not use their names or publish what they say. Sometimes, people agree to speak “on background”—that is, they permit reporters to use what they say, so long as the reporters do not reveal their names. Most journalists agree that sources cannot decide to go “off the record” after providing their information. For this reason, it is essential that sources get journalists to agree to accept their information as off the record before they are interviewed.
Journalists have sometimes complained that sources use off-the-record information to censor news by forcing reporters to guarantee that their information will never be used in the press. Most journalism professionals believe that agreeing not to publish or broadcast one source’s off-the-record information does not ethically bar reporters from using such information to help them find other sources who will provide the same information on the record. Adherence levels to these principles may vary amongst journalists and news organizations, and exact definitions can also differ. Ensuring an understanding between the journalist and the source is crucial.
Bibliography
Mitchell, Celeste. "What Are the Rules About 'Off the Record?'" Media Bistro, www.mediabistro.com/climb-the-ladder/skills-expertise/ask-mb-what-are-the-rules-about-off-the-record. Accessed 20 Oct. 2024.
Wagner, Kurt. "On or Off the Record? Journalism Sourcing 101." Santa Clara University Illuminate, 18 Oct. 2017, www.scu.edu/illuminate/thought-leaders/kurt-wagner-12/on-or-off-the-record-journalism-sourcing-101.html. Accessed 20 Oct. 2024.
"On the Record, Off the Record Explained by Chuck Todd." NBCU Academy, 16 Sept. 2021, nbcuacademy.com/off-the-record. Accessed 20 Oct. 2024.
Schuman, Nicole. "Explainer: What Does 'Off the Record' Mean?" PR News, 28 Sept. 2022, www.prnewsonline.com/what-is-off-the-record. Accessed 20 Oct. 2024.