For more than a century, some of the most valuable journalism has emerged from undercover investigations that employ subterfuge or deception to expose wrongdoing. Brooke Kroeger argues that these oft-maligned practices embody “a central discipline” of good reporting and serve an important role when it comes to hard-to-penetrate institutions or social situations that deserve the public’s attention. The database she has compiled brings together numerous examples of undercover reporting about slavery over the years, and illustrates the crucial role these investigative strategies have played in telling this difficult but vital story.
For example, student reporters may often want to see how easy it is to purchase illegal substances (cigarettes, alcohol) or services that are unlawful for minors to procure on their own (tattoos, body piercings). In those cases, the reporter typically goes undercover, attempts the purchase and then reports her findings. Student media have even worked out deals with law enforcement to essentially set up a “sting” where those who sell to or admit to the reporter something that violates a legal restriction are busted. These kinds of activities, however, can raise significant ethical concerns, and bona fide journalists are generally loathe to make themselves look like government agents, which can undermine their credibility.
It is important that a team thinks through these issues before deciding to go undercover, and to ensure that the risks of harm to individuals are balanced against the public interest served by the investigation. Having multiple editors and lawyers involved, both inside and outside the newsroom, can help. Having an independent advisor can also be helpful to keep everyone on the right track.
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