How should Forbes verify quotes used in investigative reporting?

• A. Verify through multiple independent sources and provide context.
• B. Publish quotes from a single source without context.
• C. Only paraphrase and never quote.
• D. Ignore verification to save time.

Answer: (A)

Ensuring quotes are verified through corroboration and context preserves accuracy in investigative reporting. Checking quotes against multiple independent sources confirms what was said, by whom, and under what circumstances, reducing the risk of misquotation or misattribution. Providing context explains the setting, the speaker’s role, and why the remark matters to the story, helping readers grasp its significance rather than letting words stand alone. Exact wording is important when possible, and attribution should be clear, with supporting documentation when available. Relying on a single source or skipping verification can lead to bias, misinterpretation, and legal or reputational harm, while paraphrasing alone can lose nuance and misrepresent intent.