Anonymity Policy

Annenberg Media strives to use named sources throughout its multiplatform reporting. In some cases, reporters may gather background information from a source who is not identified by name but rather by position or area of expertise. Sometimes, university public relations professionals might provide a statement to be attributed to USC and not attached to their personal identities. 

There are a variety of reasons that a source may be granted partial or full anonymity, and it is not a decision the newsroom takes lightly or grants on a blanket basis. All instances require explicit conversation with the editorial team and faculty. 

In many cases, the voices of or information from these sources is critical to a story and the sources will only be comfortable sharing with the protection of anonymity. Speaking to a journalist as a named source could put their safety, security, employment, student status or family at risk. The newsroom decision takes into account the value of the information or person’s experience to the Annenberg Media community as the editorial team decides if partial or full anonymity is warranted.

The guidelines for all reporters to follow include: 
The reporter must know the identity of the source and share that information with a supervising faculty member and the student editor/producer. That information will be kept strictly confidential within a small group.
The public-facing reporting must clearly explain to the audience why the person is being granted partial or full anonymity. 
If anonymity of any kind is granted, as many specifics as possible must be given to help the audience understand why the source is valuable to the story. 
Anonymity of any kind should not be used for unverified attacks or as the lone source making an accusation. 
 
These policies were expanded in February 2026 based on real newsroom experiences where sources share fears and concerns about being named.