Undercover report is an investigative journalism technique where a journalist poses as part of a group, community or organisation to gather evidence they would not be able to get through regular reporting methods. This can involve anything from infiltrating a group to posing as a patient in a mental health institution (as Nellie Bly did in the 19th century) to investigating workplace standards. Undercover reporting can be a powerful tool for uncovering corruption and societal injustice but it is risky work that requires serious consideration, ethical awareness and legal knowledge. It should be a last resort, used only after other methods have been exhausted (and documented).
Kroeger says that reporters should think carefully about why they want to go undercover and be aware that the process can cause significant harm and stress. It can also damage journalistic credibility if it goes wrong, leading to public distrust of the media and its ethical practices. The pitfalls include being exposed to physical threat, intense psychological stress for the reporter and possible reputational blowback to sources. It’s essential to do a cost-benefit analysis and to consult with outside advisors on the legal perils, acceptable strategies and publishable facts.
Journalists should be clear with audiences about how they plan to use their surreptitious reporting. They should test their story idea on potential sources to make sure they are not vulnerable to being detected and forewarn them about the impact of undercover reporting. It’s also important to have a communication plan in place so the reporter can alert their team when they are at risk of being exposed.