An undercover report is a form of *investigative journalism that involves the journalist pretending to be somebody else. This kind of reporting can reveal a wide range of issues such as sex trafficking, illegal gambling, abuse of the vulnerable, and corruption. Examples of undercover reporting include the work of Gunter Wallraff who wrote Ganz unten (“The lowest of the low”) about the oppressive conditions faced by immigrant workers in Germany, and the work of Donal MacIntyre in exposing employment standards in the Adventure Sports industry following the Lyme Regis canoeing disaster.
Before considering undercover reporting, journalists should have exhausted other methods of obtaining information and carefully weigh up the costs and benefits. They should consult with outside advisors about the legal risks, acceptable strategies, and publishable facts. They should also make sure that the project does not put children or other vulnerable people in danger or deny essential services to real people.
The vetting process should ensure that the reporter’s identity is concealed and that they do not breach journalistic ethics, such as by using their name on social media. It should also be made clear that they are investigating a particular allegation or complaint and will not be gathering general consumer data. It is important for the team to keep track of the impact the undercover operation may have on the reporter, including any potential mental health implications such as PTSD, and to ensure that they are regularly checked in with.