Backlash “comes with the territory” of speaking out against a public organization.
After sharing a story with the media — and with the public, once it is published — a whistleblower needs to be prepared for possible doxing and other types of harassment, both online and offline. Here are some ways to stay safe and protected (physically and emotionally) when facing retaliation. Read Digital Security for more.
- Ignore it. Many who have gone down the whistleblowing path suggest blocking any harassers online as a means of ignoring the negativity.
“There are people online who will bully anyone, just because it makes them feel powerful. Ignoring the comments section or angry tweets takes away their chance at power. Of course, some threats are real and should be reported to authorities – assigning a friend or family member to review what is being directed at you online can help protect you.”
Lioness President Amber Scorah
- Avoid responding. Although it may be tempting, responding to backlash online can be a slippery slope — especially when dealing with any litigation as a result of whistleblowing (see Lawsuits; Defamation; The Outcome). A Pew Research study of online harassment found that 83% of those who chose to ignore cyberbullying believe the tactic was effective in improving the situation.
“If you choose to do something like this, you should probably not care what people online say about you. You don’t blow the whistle for public praise.” Cambridge Analytica whistleblower Brittany Kaiser
You ain’t gonna be able to win everybody over. If you’re serious about exposing whatever the issues are, then you just know to stay the course.”
- Seek support. It is common for whistleblowers to experience feelings of fear, depression, anxiety, loneliness, and/or humiliation in the wake of sharing their story publicly. Physical reactions can manifest as well, including insomnia, increased blood pressure, and substance abuse. Backlash can cause emotional fatigue and trauma.
To cope with retaliation and any other fallout, it is important to build a network of support from mental health professionals, family members, friends, and peers — especially those who have gone through similar experiences. For information on legal and financial support, see Job and Financial Security. If retaliation or harassment becomes dangerous or life-threatening, be sure to alert your legal counsel or local law enforcement immediately.
