The triple threat to citizen journalists: The most obvious disadvantage is that self-appointed journalists work for something between a pittance and nothing. But they also lack three things that make life easier for journalists working for a recognized news organization: Libel protection, press credentials and shield laws that prohibit prosecutors from tossing reporters into jail until they reveal confidential sources of information.
Although citizen journalists seldom think about the triple threats they face, they actually run major financial and legal risks.
