Everything is on the record. Treat every exchange with a journalist as publishable and attributable unless there is an explicit agreement beforehand. Establish permitted uses, source descriptions, and confidentiality limits before sharing information. Familiarity does not establish confidentiality. A stopped recorder is not a confidentiality agreement.

Agree first, disclose next. Agree on what “off the record” means before sharing information. It generally prohibits publication, but definitions vary. Specify permitted uses and discuss independent verification. The agreement does not necessarily prevent a journalist from pursuing other sources. Regret is not a retroactive agreement.

Agree on your description. “On background” usually permits publication with an agreed description in place of your name. Negotiate that description and any restrictions before speaking. A detailed description can identify you as readily as a name. The journalist’s editors may also know who you are.

Deep background has its limits. “Deep background” commonly permits use of information without identifying or describing its source. Definitions vary. Agree on the terms before speaking, and do not assume they guarantee anonymity. Use this arrangement sparingly. Prefer named sources when public accountability matters.

Say what you can. Answer fair questions, including uncomfortable ones. Explain limits imposed by privacy, safety, legal duties, or an investigation, and share what you can. “Ongoing investigation” is not a universal exemption from explanation. Avoid speculation, and tell people how unanswered questions will be addressed.