How Journalists Can Securely Prove Access to Sensitive Data
The ongoing scandal involving a Signal chat leak has raised questions about how journalists can securely prove access to sensitive information. Initially, the White House denied the chat’s existence. When evidence mounted, they claimed it contained no classified information.But how can a journalist like Jeffrey Goldberg prove his access?
the solution lies in a method called proof of existence without disclosure.This involves cryptographic hashes and reliable timestamps. By generating a hash of the message and publishing it on a blockchain, a journalist can prove they had knowledge of the original message at a specific time.
Here’s how it works: copy the message, generate a hash, and publish it on a blockchain. Save the private key for the address used. Later, this key proves the message’s existence without revealing its content. This method creates an immutable, timestamped record.
Blockchain technology is ideal for this. You write the message, generate a hash, and publish it on a blockchain. The private key confirms it was you who published the hash. Unlike centralized social media, blockchains are immutable, ensuring the evidence is secure and verifiable.
For example, if Goldberg had done this, he could have shown he knew about the Yemen strike plans without disclosing details. This method ensures the information’s existence without revealing its contents.
This method offers journalists a secure way to handle sensitive information, ensuring they can prove their access when needed.
