Snowden’s process to leak information involved a significant amount of internet communication like IMs and emails. In order for him to stay protected, he needed a high-level of Internet security brought about through sophisticated encryption technology.  Since Snowden was acutely aware of the NSA’s intelligence operations, he knew he was not safe. He knew he needed to block their surveillance. Although Snowden had never worked with the media or journalists, he knew how the communications should take place.

This changed the role of journalists when it comes to protected sources. Since most communication between journalists and sources happens over the digital landscape, the communication is not protected. Snowden’s story showed the world of journalists that (1) for sources to be protected they must communicate through encrypted channels and (2) that most American’s are already being observed. Therefore, the story of the leak itself with the measures Snowden and others took to protect their communication, alerted journalists to the sensitivity of information. Also, ironically the leak was about how insecure our private lives really are.

Journalism has changed in regards to source protection. It was stated in the New Yorker article that investigative reporters often do not have the skills necessary to protect their sources. This puts a new responsibility on responsible journalism.      

http://www.newyorker.com/news/daily-comment/snowden-changed-journalism

http://www.newsweek.com/year-after-snowdens-leaks-journalism-adapts-253683