Shane Shirley

Can’t hate the media enough, think about how you are benefiting terrorists in an active attack cycle. A good case study is Mumbai. During the 2008 Mumbai attacks, parts of the media didn’t just report the attack. They actively created problems for the people trying to stop it. • They broadcast security operations live. Television coverage showed commandos being inserted at Nariman House, potentially giving the attackers information about the operation and destroying the element of surprise. Intercepts later showed the attackers’ handlers were relaying real-time information to them. • They revealed information about hostages. Reporting and live interviews with people trapped inside the hotels provided information about where people were hiding, which could then reach the attackers. • They put attackers on live television. One network aired live telephone conversations with attackers, giving them a direct propaganda platform and allowing them to make demands to a national audience. • They reported rumors as facts. Networks repeatedly got basic information wrong, including the number of terrorists, hostage situations and alleged attacks at other locations. Some reports were later retracted or apologized for. • They competed for the closest possible shot. The drive to be first and closest sometimes meant broadcasting sensitive operational details, interviewing victims in real time and showing graphic scenes while the attack was still unfolding. Information can become a weapon. And once it goes live, you don't get to decide who is watching.