How to Reach
Our Reporters Securely

Signal is an end-to-end encrypted messaging app. Messages and calls are encrypted in transit and on device. It is the preferred method for confidential tips, document sharing, or anything you don't want traced back to you.

1. 01 Download Signal from the App Store or Google Play. Use a personal device — not a work phone or computer.
2. 02 In Signal settings, enable disappearing messages on our conversation thread and set auto-delete to one week.
3. 03 Message or call 209-425-2677. You don't need to give us your name — share only what you're comfortable with.
4. 04 Documents, photos, audio files, and screenshots can be sent directly through Signal — all end-to-end encrypted.

Proton-to-Proton email is fully end-to-end encrypted — even Proton cannot read the contents. If you email us from Gmail, Yahoo, or another provider, the message is encrypted in transit but your provider can still access it.

1. 01 Create a free account at proton.me. Use a name that doesn't identify you. Skip the recovery email and phone number fields.
2. 02 Email dismalfreedompress@proton.me from your new Proton account. The message is encrypted server-to-server.
3. 03 Attach documents as needed. For very large files, contact us via Signal first so we can set up a secure transfer channel.

Physical mail leaves no digital footprint and is appropriate for printed documents, handwritten notes, or situations where you have no access to secure digital tools. Do not include a return address if you need to remain anonymous.

1. 01 Mail documents or a note to our address above. Omit your name and return address if anonymity matters.
2. 02 Buy a stamp with cash at a post office outside your normal neighborhood to limit geographic association.
3. 03 To establish follow-up contact, include a Signal number or a Proton email address we can reach you at.