Methodology
How Investigations Are Conducted
This page documents the standards, frameworks, and processes that govern every investigation published by Thom Aster. It exists so readers can assess the rigour behind the reporting.
Source Verification
Every claim in every investigation is supported by at least one verifiable source. Where possible, multiple independent sources are required. Sources are classified as: primary (original documents, direct testimony, leaked materials), secondary (verified reporting, academic analysis, official records), or tertiary (cross-referenced patterns, aggregated data). Primary sources are always preferred.
The Evidence Ledger
Every investigation is tracked in the Evidence Ledger — a living document that records the original claim, the evidence gathered, and the current verdict. Verdicts are updated as new evidence emerges. The ledger is the audit trail: it allows readers to verify the chain from claim to conclusion.
Correction Policy
If an error is identified, a correction is published promptly and prominently. The original text is preserved with a strikethrough and the correction is appended. The Evidence Ledger is updated to reflect the correction. No errors are silently fixed.
Source Protection
Source identities are protected absolutely. No source is named without explicit consent. Where sources must remain anonymous, the reason for anonymity is stated and the credibility of the source is assessed in the text. Leaked documents are verified for authenticity before publication.
Systems Audit Framework
Investigations follow a systems audit methodology: identify the system, map its components, trace the flows of power and money, identify failure points, and present findings with evidence. This framework is applied consistently across all subject areas — from surveillance infrastructure to geopolitical strategy.
Independence
Thom Aster operates independently. No funding is accepted from organisations that would create a conflict of interest. Support comes from readers via Buy Me a Coffee and cryptocurrency donations. No advertising, no sponsors, no institutional funding.