The Wall Street Journal has officially launched SafeHouse. Clearly modeled on the controversial WikiLeaks website, SafeHouse allows users to anonymously upload and submit tips, documents and files.
To maintain a high level of security, SafeHouse is apparently a “stand-alone site” that resides on a server accessible only to WSJ editors.
“SafeHouse will enable the collection of information and documents that could be used in the generation of trustworthy news stories,” explained Robert Thomson, editor-in-chief of Dow Jones & Company and managing editor of the Journal.
According to Thomson, documents and databases are the “key” to modern journalism.
“But they’re almost always hidden behind locked doors, especially when they detail wrongdoing such as fraud, abuse, pollution, insider trading, and other harms.
“[So] that’s why we need your help,” he added.
Safehouse is expected to act as a single location for readers to anonymously submit information on any topic.
The WSJ plans to review all information submitted, stating, “Documents and tips provided to SafeHouse will be vetted by some of the world’s most experienced and responsible investigative reporters and editors.”
Can the Wall Street Journal effectively compete against Wikileaks and founder Julian Assange? Perhaps. Will they run into legal issues at some point? Most definitely.
