News Council Launches "Loose Lips Sink Ships" Public Service Ad Campaign
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
News Council Launches Public Service Ad Campaign Reviving "Loose Lips Sink Ships"
New campaign warns that careless online posts, leaks and misinformation can damage public trust, reputations and national security.
GREENSBORO, N.C. — The News Council announced today a new public service advertising campaign inspired by the famous World War One warning slogan: "Loose Lips Sink Ships."
The campaign reminds Americans that in the digital age, careless words, leaked information, reckless social media posts and irresponsible online publishing can have serious real-world consequences.
"Today, one careless tweet, leaked email, private text or false accusation can destroy careers, move financial markets, damage national security or trigger public panic."
— Mitchell P. Davis, News Council
During World War One, "Loose Lips Sink Ships" warned military personnel and civilians that casual conversations could reveal information valuable to enemy forces. The News Council campaign updates that warning for an era of instant publishing, viral rumors, hacked documents, AI-generated misinformation, anonymous leaks and online outrage.
Campaign Themes
- Verify before you amplify
- Think before you post
- False information spreads faster than corrections
- Careless leaks can harm innocent people
- Journalism carries public responsibility
- Freedom of the press also requires accountability
LOOSE LIPS SINK SHIPS
Truth Matters. Facts Before Fury. Think Before You Share.
The campaign will include vintage-style public service posters, online graphics, educational videos, classroom materials and social media messages encouraging responsible communication and ethical journalism.
The News Council said the campaign is intended not only for journalists, but also for influencers, bloggers, podcasters, government employees, students and everyday social media users.
"The ability to publish instantly to the world is a tremendous freedom. But freedom without responsibility can create chaos, panic, reputational destruction and threats to public safety."
— Mitchell P. Davis
The organization plans to distribute the posters and educational materials to journalism schools, news organizations, libraries, public policy groups, civic organizations and online publishers nationwide.
About the News Council
The News Council is an independent public-interest organization dedicated to promoting ethical journalism, media literacy, press freedom, responsible communication and public trust in news and information systems.
Media Contact:
News Council
Greensboro, North Carolina
Phone/Text: (202) 333-5000
Website: www.NewsCouncil.org
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