Online hate forums and message board allow people to speak about their desire to commit violence against others because of their race, sexual orientation, gender, religion or other characteristics. In some cases, members plan, announce and commit acts of terrorism.
Covering hate groups can be risky and journalists expose themselves to online and offline harassment, not to mention the psychological toll this kind of reporting takes on them.
April Glaser, NBC journalist who has experienced such harassment herself, has compiled 13 tips for keeping secure whilst reporting on online hate groups for Journalist’s Resource.
The tips cover everything from using aliases online to knowing when to get the police involved, as well as further resources to assist journalists on this beat.
"Assume every interaction you have is not only being recorded but might also be edited in an attempt to harass you or undercut your work," she writes.
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