How did you get this number?

When a source asks you this, how do you respond? Do you tell him/her? Ignore the question?

 

"I researched it."

www.anywho.com is a pretty good source.

But there are many sources by which to gain phone numbers.

 

Not difficult if you kow how to do research on the 'net.

 

If I got it out of a phone book or other database, I'll tell them.
If someone else gave it to me, I say, "I'm sorry. I'm a journalist and I never reveal my sources."
Most of the time, that gets a laugh, but I am also serious about that.

 

"A stall in the men's room."

 

i tell the person my source, unless my source gives me the number and tells me "you didn't get it from me," in which case I tell the person that "unfortunately, I can't say" and if the person is squirmy, i usually say that I keep the number confidential.

 

"How did you get my number?"
"The questions isn't how did I get your number, but what I am doing outside of your house right now."

 

"From my friend at ESPN..."

 

I haven't heard that question in a while, but when I do, I tell them that we just have it on file somewhere.

 

From your wife. She's very talented. And kinky. She learn that from you?

 

"just good investigative journalism." 8) 8) 8)

 

Sneaky BAstard 101... they teach it in college