Effective Date: January 27, 2026 Applies to: The Falmouth Whisper
1. Purpose
The Falmouth Whisper is committed to truth, transparency, and the protection of individuals who come forward with information regarding corruption, abuse, negligence, or misconduct within public or private entities. This addendum outlines our policy regarding the protection, confidentiality, and support of whistleblowers who interact with our platform.
2. Scope
This addendum applies to any individual—anonymous or named—who provides information, tips, documents, testimony, or evidence through any method of communication with The Falmouth Whisper, including but not limited to:
Email
Encrypted channels
Comment boxes
Direct outreach to editors or contributors
3. Confidentiality Guarantee
We will never disclose the identity of a whistleblower without their explicit, written consent.
All identifying information will be kept confidential and encrypted whenever possible.
Any communication requesting anonymity will be respected to the highest degree technologically feasible.
4. Protection Against Retaliation
Retaliation will not be tolerated against whistleblowers, informants, or sources.
If any whistleblower faces threats, coercion, or retribution, we will publicly expose the responsible parties to the fullest extent permitted by law.
Where possible, we may assist in connecting whistleblowers with pro bono legal counsel or advocacy groups for additional protection.
5. Submission Methods
Whistleblowers are encouraged to use secure or anonymous communication methods such as:
Encrypted email (PGP key available on request)
Secure contact forms
Dropboxes hosted on Whisper platforms
In-person communication arranged under safe conditions
6. Editorial Independence
Our editorial teams are empowered to:
Protect their sources
Operate independently of influence from advertisers, local government, law enforcement, or any outside interests
7. Legal Disclaimer
While we strive to protect all whistleblowers:
The Falmouth Whisper cannot guarantee immunity from third-party investigations or legal action outside our control
We will resist subpoenas or attempts to unmask sources wherever legally possible
