Media security reports

E

EL CENTRAL Hispanic News

elcentralmedia.com

55

EL CENTRAL Hispanic News is a bilingual media publication serving Michigan's Hispanic community with local business features, national news, and community stories. Established in 2022, it positions itself as Michigan's oldest bilingual Hispanic newspaper, targeting bilingual readers interested in Hispanic culture and community news. The website uses WordPress with Elementor and the jNews theme, supported by Google Tag Manager and Mailchimp for analytics and marketing. Hosting and domain registration are managed via Squarespace Domains and Google Cloud DNS. Security posture is moderate with HTTPS enabled and domain status protections, but lacks DNSSEC and explicit security policies. Privacy compliance is weak due to missing privacy and cookie policies. Contact is available via a web form, and social media presence is active on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Overall, the site is professionally designed with good content quality and SEO, but should improve privacy and security disclosures to enhance trust and compliance.

D

Detroit Free Press

freep.com

70

Detroit Free Press is a well-established regional news media organization serving Detroit and Michigan, operating under the umbrella of Gannett Co., Inc. The website provides comprehensive news coverage including local news, sports, business, and entertainment. It targets residents and news consumers interested in regional and national news. The business model is primarily advertising-supported with subscription options, leveraging a strong affiliation with the USA TODAY Network to maintain market leadership in the region. The site demonstrates consistent branding and good content quality, supporting a large audience with professional digital news services. Technically, the website employs a modern technology stack including Polymer web components, extensive use of JavaScript libraries, and integration with multiple advertising and analytics platforms such as Google Analytics, Adobe Audience Manager, and various ad networks. The site is hosted on Gannett's CDN infrastructure, optimized for mobile and desktop with good SEO and accessibility features. Performance is moderate, with room for improvement in loading speed. From a security perspective, the site enforces HTTPS, uses strong security headers, and implements cookie consent management compliant with GDPR. No critical vulnerabilities or exposed sensitive data were detected. However, the site lacks a publicly available security policy or incident response contact, and no vulnerability disclosure program is evident. Overall, the security posture is good but could be enhanced with formalized policies and transparency. The domain eu.freep.com is a subdomain of freep.com, which is a legitimate and trusted domain owned by Gannett. WHOIS data for the subdomain is not available, which is typical for subdomains. No WAF or blocking mechanisms were detected, and the site content is fully accessible. The site integrates multiple third-party advertising and tracking services with user consent, balancing monetization and privacy compliance effectively.

Bridge Michigan is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization focused on delivering original, fact-driven reporting and analysis on Michigan state issues including politics, environment, education, and quality of life. The website serves Michigan residents and stakeholders seeking trustworthy local news and insights. The business model relies on donations, memberships, and sponsorships, positioning Bridge Michigan as a respected regional media entity with a strong digital presence and community engagement. Technically, the site is built on Drupal 10, leveraging modern analytics and advertising technologies such as Google Tag Manager, Adsense, and Facebook Pixel. The site is mobile optimized, accessible, and SEO friendly, providing a professional user experience. Security posture is good with HTTPS enforced and cookie consent implemented, though explicit security headers and published security policies are absent. The WHOIS data is missing or unavailable, which is unusual but does not detract significantly from the site's credibility given its nonprofit status and professional presentation. Overall, Bridge Michigan demonstrates a mature digital infrastructure and trustworthy content delivery, with room for improvement in security transparency and WHOIS data clarity.

S

Local news and resources for Ohioans by Ohioans

signalohio.org

59

SignalOhio.org is a local news and resource platform dedicated to serving Ohio residents with community-focused content. The website operates on a WordPress CMS and integrates marketing and analytics tools such as HubSpot and Fundraise Up. The domain is relatively new, registered in late 2022, and uses privacy protection services common for small or new websites. The site demonstrates basic content quality and design, with moderate SEO and mobile optimization. However, it lacks critical privacy and cookie policies, security headers, and explicit contact information, which impacts its overall trustworthiness and compliance posture.

The Accountability Project is a non-profit investigative journalism platform operated by The Center for Public Integrity. It provides a powerful search tool for over 1.9 billion public records, supporting journalists and researchers in uncovering accountability stories. The project is grant-funded and partners with reputable foundations and investigative organizations, positioning it as a trusted resource in the media sector. Technically, the website uses standard web technologies with Google Analytics and Tag Manager for tracking, and is hosted with a registrar that provides privacy protection. The site is accessible, mobile-optimized, and professionally designed, though it lacks some advanced technical frameworks and CMS indications. Security posture is moderate with HTTPS enabled and domain transfer protections, but lacks DNSSEC and security headers. Privacy compliance is weak due to missing privacy and cookie policies. Overall, the site is credible and functional but would benefit from enhanced privacy and security practices.

Public Media Venture Group (PMVG) is a nonprofit consortium comprising 32 leading public media organizations focused on business development and technology partnerships. The organization aims to empower public television and radio stations through innovative technology platforms, NextGen TV capabilities, and new revenue models. The website reflects a professional and consistent brand presence, targeting public media stakeholders and broadcasters. Technically, the site is built on the Wix platform, leveraging modern web technologies and delivering moderate performance with good mobile optimization. Security posture is adequate with HTTPS enabled and some script-based security hardening, but lacks explicit security headers and formal privacy or cookie policies. The absence of WHOIS registration data raises concerns about domain legitimacy, impacting overall trust despite the professional site content. Strategic recommendations include enhancing security headers, publishing privacy and cookie policies, and providing clear contact channels for security incidents to improve compliance and trust.

L

Lenfest Institute

lenfestinstitute.org

65

The Lenfest Institute for Journalism is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and sustaining local journalism through grant funding, advisory services, and community-building initiatives. Positioned as a key player in the media sector, it serves journalism professionals, local news organizations, and donors with resources aimed at fostering sustainable news ecosystems. The website reflects a mature digital presence with professional design, clear navigation, and active engagement channels including social media and newsletters. Technically, the site is built on WordPress with modern analytics and monitoring tools, delivering fast performance and good mobile optimization. Security posture is solid with HTTPS enforced and no visible vulnerabilities, though improvements in security headers and cookie consent mechanisms are recommended. Overall, the site demonstrates high business credibility and trustworthiness, though the absence of WHOIS data limits domain registration transparency.

C

Colorado Community Media

coloradocommunitymedia.com

60

Colorado Community Media is a well-established regional media company founded in 2012, providing comprehensive local news coverage across multiple Colorado communities. The website serves as a digital hub for news, sports, arts, and community events, targeting residents within its service areas. The business model relies on advertising, sponsored content, and newsletter subscriptions, positioning itself as a trusted local news source with a consistent brand presence and partnership with the National Trust for Local News. Technically, the website is built on WordPress using the Newspack theme, optimized for news media with moderate performance and good mobile responsiveness. The infrastructure includes modern analytics and advertising technologies such as Google Analytics, Broadstreet Ads, and Jetpack. Hosting and domain registration are managed via GoDaddy, with standard domain protections but lacking DNSSEC. From a security perspective, the site uses HTTPS with good SSL configuration and domain-level EPP protections. However, it lacks advanced security headers and a formal vulnerability disclosure policy. Privacy compliance is partial, with a comprehensive privacy policy present but no cookie consent mechanism detected, which may affect GDPR compliance. Contact information is primarily via web forms, with no direct emails or phone numbers publicly listed. Overall, the website demonstrates a solid business and technical foundation with room for improvement in security best practices and privacy compliance. Strategic enhancements in these areas would strengthen trust and regulatory adherence while maintaining its role as a key local news provider.

A

American Journalism Project

theajp.org

50

The American Journalism Project is a non-profit organization dedicated to revitalizing and sustaining local journalism across communities. Their business model centers on grantmaking, local philanthropy partnerships, startup incubation, and product development including AI initiatives. The organization positions itself as a key player in the media non-profit sector, targeting philanthropists, local news organizations, and community stakeholders. The website reflects a professional and consistent brand with excellent content quality and clear navigation. Technically, the site is built on WordPress and leverages modern JavaScript libraries such as GSAP, Lottie Player, and D3.js for interactive and dynamic content. Google Analytics is used for user tracking, and the site is optimized for mobile with good accessibility and SEO practices. Performance is moderate, with room for improvement in security headers and explicit privacy compliance features. Security posture is solid with HTTPS enabled and no visible sensitive data exposure. However, the absence of security headers, vulnerability disclosure, and incident response information indicates areas for enhancement. Privacy compliance is limited due to missing explicit privacy and cookie policies and consent mechanisms. Overall, the site is trustworthy and professional but would benefit from improved transparency in privacy and security policies to enhance user trust and compliance with regulations.

V

VTDigger Shop

vtdiggershop.org

59

VTDigger Shop is an e-commerce website dedicated to selling branded merchandise that supports independent journalism in Vermont. The site offers products such as tote bags, hats, t-shirts, and gift cards, targeting Vermont residents and supporters of local journalism. The business model focuses on on-demand production to reduce overproduction and promote thoughtful purchasing. The website is built on the Squarespace platform, leveraging modern web technologies including Google Tag Manager for analytics and Typekit for fonts. The site is mobile optimized with a clear navigation structure and professional design, providing a good user experience. Security posture is strong with HTTPS and HSTS enabled, but lacks some advanced security headers and explicit vulnerability disclosure mechanisms. Privacy compliance is limited due to the absence of a privacy policy and cookie consent banner. WHOIS data is unavailable, likely due to privacy protection, but the domain and website content appear consistent with a legitimate small media-related e-commerce operation. Strategic recommendations include adding privacy and cookie policies, enhancing security headers, and providing clear contact information for security incidents.

S

solemedia GbR Peter und Agathe Rösch

solemedia.de

43

solemedia GbR Peter und Agathe Rösch operates a full-service marketing and communication agency based in Germany, focusing on services such as marketing, design, print, and internet solutions. The website presents a professional design with a clear focus on their service offerings, targeting businesses seeking comprehensive marketing support. Technically, the site uses modern front-end frameworks like Bootstrap and integrates self-hosted Matomo analytics alongside a Usercentrics consent manager, indicating a moderate level of digital maturity and privacy awareness. Security posture is adequate with HTTPS usage and consent management, but lacks visible security headers and published security policies, which are areas for improvement. Overall, the website is accessible and functional but would benefit from enhanced transparency in privacy and security documentation to improve trust and compliance.

K

Knock Knock WHOIS Not There, LLC

kjtz.co

59

The website jungespublikum.blog is a German-language cultural blog dedicated to performing arts and young audiences, providing networking, event information, funding, and research dissemination. It is hosted on WordPress.com and registered via Automattic Inc., with domain registration dating from 2023, consistent with the site's recent content. The platform targets professionals and stakeholders in the cultural and performing arts sectors, operating as a small non-profit media entity. Technically, the site uses WordPress with Jetpack and Gutenberg, delivering a modern and moderately performant user experience with good mobile optimization and basic accessibility. Security posture is solid with HTTPS enforced and domain transfer protection, though DNSSEC is not enabled and explicit security headers are not visible. Privacy compliance is weak, lacking visible privacy or cookie policies and consent mechanisms. Contact is primarily via a blog subscription form, with no direct emails or phone numbers published. Social media presence is established across major platforms. Overall, the site is trustworthy and professionally maintained but would benefit from enhanced privacy disclosures and security hardening.

E

Excelsior Rotterdam

excelsiorrotterdam.nl

68

Excelsior Rotterdam is a professional football club based in the Netherlands, operating a comprehensive website that serves fans, business partners, and the local community. The site offers detailed team information, match schedules, news updates, and e-commerce functionality through its fanshop. The club maintains a strong market position within Dutch football, supported by active business partnerships and community engagement. Technically, the website is built on WordPress with WooCommerce, enhanced by modern analytics and marketing tools such as Google Tag Manager and Quantcast. The site demonstrates good digital maturity with mobile optimization and SEO best practices. Security posture is solid, featuring HTTPS, DNSSEC, and cookie consent mechanisms, though additional security headers could further enhance protection. Privacy compliance is well addressed with clear policies and consent management. Overall, the website reflects a professional and trustworthy digital presence aligned with the club's brand and business objectives.

R

RKC Waalwijk

rkcwaalwijk.nl

67

RKC Waalwijk is a professional Dutch football club with a well-established online presence. The website serves as a hub for fans and stakeholders, offering news, ticket sales, merchandise, and community engagement through its foundation. The club maintains a consistent brand image and provides a user-friendly experience with clear navigation and mobile optimization. Technically, the site is built on TYPO3 CMS and integrates modern analytics and advertising technologies, ensuring good performance and SEO. Security posture is solid with HTTPS, cookie consent, and no visible vulnerabilities, though explicit security policies and incident response contacts are absent. Overall, the site reflects a mature digital infrastructure aligned with the club's business objectives.

The Washington Monthly is a well-established independent media organization focused on political and educational journalism, with a strong emphasis on government accountability and policy analysis. The website serves a target audience interested in in-depth political commentary, education issues, and public affairs, supported by subscription and donations. Technically, the site is built on WordPress with modern SEO and analytics tools, delivering good performance and mobile optimization. Security posture is solid with HTTPS and domain transfer protections, though DNSSEC is not enabled and no explicit cookie consent mechanism is present. Overall, the site demonstrates high professionalism and trustworthiness with a long domain history and consistent WHOIS data.

M

Montana Free Press

montanafreepress.org

65

Montana Free Press is an independent nonprofit digital newsroom providing fact-based statewide news coverage focused on Montana. It operates with a reader-supported business model emphasizing transparency, ethics, and community engagement. The organization is positioned as a leading source of independent journalism in Montana, offering news, newsletters, special projects, and events. The website is professionally designed with excellent content quality and clear navigation targeting Montana residents and stakeholders interested in local affairs. Technically, the site is built on WordPress with a modern tech stack including WooCommerce for e-commerce, Fundraise Up for donations, and Google Analytics for tracking. Hosting is via WordPress.com nameservers, ensuring reliable infrastructure. The site is mobile-optimized, fast loading, and accessible with good SEO practices. Security posture is strong with HTTPS, multiple security headers, and use of Google reCAPTCHA on forms. No critical vulnerabilities or exposed sensitive data were detected. Privacy compliance is good with a comprehensive privacy policy and GDPR considerations, though cookie consent mechanisms and terms of service are missing. Contact information is available primarily via email and contact forms. Overall, the website presents a trustworthy, professional, and secure platform for nonprofit journalism. Strategic recommendations include implementing cookie consent banners, publishing terms of service, and adding vulnerability disclosure and incident response information to enhance transparency and compliance.

T

The Colorado News Conservancy

coloradonewsconservancy.com

42

The Colorado News Conservancy is a nonprofit collaboration launched in 2021 by the National Trust for Local News and The Colorado Sun to maintain community ownership of 24 local newspapers in Colorado. The organization positions itself as an innovative alternative to national media consolidation, focusing on local journalism and community engagement. The website reflects this mission with clear content, partnership references, and a call to support the initiative. Technically, the site uses modern React technology, is hosted on Glitch, and integrates Google Tag Manager and Mailchimp for analytics and marketing. Security posture is moderate with HTTPS enabled but lacks advanced security headers and DNSSEC. Privacy compliance is weak due to missing privacy and cookie policies. Business credibility is strong given the reputable partners and consistent WHOIS data. Overall, the site is professional and trustworthy but would benefit from enhanced privacy and security practices.

V

VTDigger

vtdigger.org

63

VTDigger is a well-established, member-supported news organization focused on Vermont, providing comprehensive coverage of business, politics, environment, and public policy since 2009. The website demonstrates a strong market position as Vermont's largest newsroom, with a professional and consistent brand presence. Technically, the site is built on WordPress with modern plugins and integrations such as Gravity Forms, WooCommerce, and Google Analytics, hosted with reputable providers and using Cloudflare DNS. The site is mobile-optimized and SEO-friendly, offering a good user experience. Security posture is solid with HTTPS and domain protections, though it lacks some advanced security headers and explicit security policies. Privacy compliance is limited by the absence of visible privacy and cookie policies, which should be addressed to improve trust and regulatory adherence. Overall, the site is credible and trustworthy with room for improvement in privacy and security transparency.

Mirror Indy is a small nonprofit media organization dedicated to community-oriented news reporting in Indianapolis. The website serves as a platform to engage local residents with relevant news, events, and community stories. The organization relies on donations and subscriptions to support its mission. Technically, the site is built on WordPress using the Newspack theme, integrating modern analytics and advertising tools such as Google Analytics, Google Tag Manager, and DoubleClick. The site demonstrates good mobile optimization and SEO practices, though some accessibility features could be improved. Security posture is adequate with HTTPS enabled and reCAPTCHA on forms, but lacks DNSSEC and some recommended security headers. Privacy compliance is partial, with a privacy policy present but no cookie consent mechanism detected. Overall, the domain registration is consistent with nonprofit use, employing privacy protection appropriately. The site is trustworthy and professionally maintained, with room for security and privacy enhancements.

The Center for Public Integrity is a well-established nonprofit investigative journalism organization founded in 1997, focused on exposing inequality and holding powerful interests accountable. It operates a professional, content-rich website with a strong emphasis on investigative reports, podcasts, and data tools. The organization targets a broad audience interested in social justice, democracy, and accountability. Technically, the website is built on WordPress, leveraging modern SEO and performance optimizations, hosted behind Cloudflare for DNS and CDN services. Security posture is strong with HTTPS enforced and domain transfer protections, though some security headers and explicit incident response policies are absent. Privacy compliance is partial, with a privacy policy present but no cookie consent mechanism detected. Overall, the website demonstrates high professionalism, trustworthiness, and digital maturity.

S

Signal Cleveland

signalcleveland.org

61

Signal Cleveland is a nonprofit newsroom dedicated to serving the Greater Cleveland community with local news and resources. Founded recently in 2022, it operates with a mission to provide accessible, community-focused journalism covering government, housing, education, and public safety. The organization relies on donations and community support, as evidenced by donation appeals and fundraising campaigns on the website. The site is well-branded and maintains consistent messaging aligned with its nonprofit media identity. Technically, the website is built on WordPress using the Newspack theme, leveraging modern tools such as Gravity Forms for data collection, Yoast SEO for search optimization, and integrations with HubSpot, Fundraise Up, and Parsely for marketing and analytics. Hosting is provided by Automattic Inc., consistent with WordPress.com infrastructure. The site demonstrates moderate performance and good mobile optimization, though accessibility features are basic. From a security perspective, the site uses HTTPS and has domain transfer protections enabled, but lacks DNSSEC and security headers such as CSP or HSTS. No privacy or cookie policies were found, indicating gaps in compliance with GDPR and other privacy regulations. No incident response or vulnerability disclosure information is published. Tracking and advertising scripts are present, including Google Analytics and Facebook Pixel, with moderate user tracking. Overall, Signal Cleveland presents a credible and professional nonprofit media presence with solid technical foundations but requires improvements in privacy compliance and security best practices to enhance trust and regulatory adherence.

L

Lookout Santa Cruz

lookout.co

55

Lookout Santa Cruz is a well-established local news media organization founded in 2010, serving Santa Cruz County with daily news, opinion, and community resources. The website is professionally designed using WordPress CMS and integrates modern technologies such as WooCommerce, Google Tag Manager, and Broadstreet Ads for monetization and analytics. The site demonstrates good content quality and user experience, targeting local residents and community members. Security posture is adequate with HTTPS enabled and domain transfer protection, but lacks advanced DNS security and published security policies. Privacy compliance is limited due to absence of explicit privacy and cookie policies. Overall, the site is trustworthy and credible with room for improvement in privacy and security transparency.

T

The Black Wall Street Times

theblackwallsttimes.com

64

The Black Wall Street Times is a small, niche national news publication focused on delivering news from Black perspectives, headquartered in Tulsa's historic Greenwood District. The website is built on WordPress and leverages a modern technology stack including Yoast SEO, WooCommerce, Jetpack, and various advertising and analytics tools. The site demonstrates good content quality, consistent branding, and a professional design optimized for both desktop and mobile users. Security posture is adequate with HTTPS enabled and domain transfer protections in place, though improvements such as enabling DNSSEC and implementing security headers are recommended. Privacy compliance is limited due to the absence of explicit privacy and cookie policies. Overall, the site is trustworthy and functional but would benefit from enhanced privacy and security disclosures to improve user trust and regulatory compliance.

T

The Haitian Times

haitiantimes.com

59

The Haitian Times is a well-established online news media outlet focused on delivering news and information about Haiti and the Haitian diaspora globally. Founded in 1998, it serves as an authoritative voice for the Haitian community with a broad range of content including news articles, videos, and special reports. The website targets the Haitian diaspora and those interested in Haitian affairs, operating primarily as an advertising-supported media platform with subscription and donation options. The brand is consistent and professional, with a strong social media presence and a clear market position within its niche. Technically, the site is built on WordPress using the Newspack theme and associated plugins, leveraging modern web technologies such as Google Analytics, Google Tag Manager, and OneSignal for push notifications. The site is hosted with Cloudflare DNS and uses HTTPS with good SSL configuration, ensuring secure communications. Performance is moderate with good mobile optimization and basic accessibility features. SEO is well implemented through Yoast SEO and structured data. From a security perspective, the site follows best practices such as HTTPS enforcement and domain transfer protection. However, DNSSEC is not enabled, and there is a lack of published security policies or incident response information. Privacy compliance is weak due to missing privacy and cookie policies and no visible consent mechanisms, which could expose the site to regulatory risks. Overall, The Haitian Times presents a credible and professional online presence with solid technical infrastructure but should improve privacy compliance and DNS security to enhance trust and regulatory adherence.

B

Bridge Detroit

bridgedetroit.com

57

BridgeDetroit is a nonprofit news media organization dedicated to providing original, community-driven reporting focused on Detroit's local issues including health, education, jobs, and neighborhoods. The website serves Detroit residents and stakeholders by delivering relevant news, analysis, and community engagement through multiple channels such as newsletters and podcasts. The organization is grant-funded by reputable foundations, emphasizing its nonprofit and community-oriented mission. Technically, the website is built on WordPress with a modern tech stack including Yoast SEO, Google Analytics, and AMP partial implementation, ensuring good performance, mobile optimization, and SEO effectiveness. Security posture is strong with HTTPS, security headers, and secure forms using reCAPTCHA, though privacy compliance could be improved by adding a cookie consent mechanism and publishing more explicit security policies. The absence of public WHOIS data slightly reduces trust but the professional content and transparency in business information mitigate this concern. Overall, BridgeDetroit presents a trustworthy, well-maintained digital presence aligned with its nonprofit mission.

T

The Center for Investigative Reporting

revealnews.org

64

Reveal from The Center for Investigative Reporting is a well-established nonprofit investigative journalism organization founded in 2014. It provides high-quality investigative news content, podcasts, and multimedia storytelling aimed at engaging and empowering the public on critical social issues. The organization maintains a strong market position within nonprofit media, supported by a professional website and active social media presence. Technically, the website is built on WordPress with modern plugins and integrations such as Yoast SEO, Google Analytics, and reCAPTCHA, hosted on WordPress.com infrastructure. The site demonstrates good mobile optimization, accessibility, and SEO practices, though performance is moderate. Security posture is solid with HTTPS and secure forms, but could be enhanced by enabling DNSSEC and adding security headers. Privacy compliance is limited as no explicit privacy or cookie policies were found in the provided content. Overall, the website is professional, trustworthy, and credible, with room for improvement in privacy and security transparency.

F

Flint Beat

flintbeat.com

62

Flint Beat is a small, community-focused non-profit media organization dedicated to providing rigorous, evidence-based local news coverage for Flint, Michigan. The website serves as a platform for community engagement, local news dissemination, and fundraising through donations and newsletter subscriptions. Technically, the site is built on WordPress using the Newspack theme and plugins, leveraging modern web technologies and integrations such as Google Analytics, Facebook Pixel, and Broadstreet Ads for monetization and audience insights. Security posture is adequate with HTTPS enabled and use of Google reCAPTCHA on forms, but lacks advanced security headers and DNSSEC. Privacy compliance is limited due to absence of explicit privacy and cookie policies. Overall, the site is professional, well-branded, and trustworthy, with room for improvement in privacy and security best practices.

B

Black Voice News

blackvoicenews.com

62

Black Voice News is a niche media organization focused on serving the Black community in California through advocacy and data-driven journalism. The website offers news content, community engagement via newsletters, and donation-based funding. Technically, the site is built on WordPress with a modern plugin ecosystem supporting e-commerce, events, and marketing integrations. The site is mobile-optimized and SEO-friendly, with good content quality and consistent branding. Security posture is adequate with HTTPS and cookie consent mechanisms, though improvements such as DNSSEC and security headers are recommended. No critical vulnerabilities or blocking mechanisms were detected, and the domain registration is consistent with a legitimate, long-standing media entity.

E

Epicenter NYC

epicenter-nyc.com

58

Epicenter NYC is a digital media platform focused on connecting New Yorkers with local news, information, arts, politics, and community events. Founded in 2020, it operates as a small media business with a strong local focus, offering news articles, newsletters, podcasts, advertising, membership, and an e-commerce shop. The website is built on WordPress with modern SEO and analytics tools, demonstrating a mature digital infrastructure. Security posture is good with HTTPS and domain registration protections, but lacks DNSSEC and explicit security headers. Privacy compliance is weak due to missing privacy and cookie policies. Overall, the site is professional and trustworthy with room for improvement in privacy and security transparency.

B

Berkeleyside

berkeleyside.org

47

Berkeleyside is a nonprofit local news organization focused on delivering comprehensive news coverage for Berkeley, California. It holds a strong market position as the leading local news source, offering services such as breaking news, public safety updates, political coverage, food and real estate news, and community events. The website is well-branded and targets residents and community members interested in local affairs. Technically, the site is built on WordPress using the Newspack theme, integrating modern technologies like Gravity Forms, WooCommerce, Google Analytics, and Facebook Pixel. Hosting leverages Amazon S3 for media assets, ensuring fast content delivery. Security posture is solid with HTTPS enforced and use of reCAPTCHA, though explicit security headers and privacy policies could be improved. Overall, the site demonstrates a high level of professionalism and trustworthiness, though privacy compliance disclosures and cookie consent mechanisms are areas for enhancement.

O

Outlier Media

outliermedia.org

60

Outlier Media is a nonprofit newsroom dedicated to serving the Detroit community by providing local, accountable, and informed journalism. The organization focuses on community needs, accountability, and local issues, supported by donations and sponsorships such as from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. The website is well-structured with clear navigation, multiple social media channels, and donation integration, reflecting a mature nonprofit media entity. Technically, the site is built on WordPress with modern plugins and SEO tools, hosted on WordPress.com infrastructure. Security posture is adequate with HTTPS and reCAPTCHA usage, but lacks advanced security headers and published security policies. Privacy compliance is weak due to missing privacy and cookie policies. Overall, the site is trustworthy and professional but could improve in privacy and security transparency.

T

The Emancipator

theemancipator.org

59

The Emancipator is a specialized news magazine launched in 2022, focusing on solutions to racial inequity. It has established itself as a leading voice in antiracist journalism, partnering with a diverse community and recently transitioning to Howard University. The website is built on WordPress with a modern tech stack including Yoast SEO, Google Analytics, and AMP for mobile optimization. The site offers rich content, including articles, videos, newsletters, and events, targeting audiences interested in racial justice and equity. Technically, the site is well-structured, mobile-optimized, and SEO-friendly, though performance is moderate and some security enhancements are recommended. Security posture is good with HTTPS and domain protection, but lacks DNSSEC and security headers. Privacy compliance is weak due to missing privacy and cookie policies. Overall, the site is professional, trustworthy, and credible, with room for improvement in privacy and security transparency.

O

Oakland news | The Oaklandside

oaklandside.org

50

The Oaklandside is a small media outlet focused on delivering local news and community journalism related to Oakland, California. The website is built on the WordPress platform and hosted by Automattic Inc., leveraging common plugins such as Gravity Forms and Yoast SEO to manage content and optimize search engine presence. The site targets residents and stakeholders interested in Oakland's local affairs, positioning itself as a community-focused news source. Technically, the website demonstrates moderate performance and good mobile optimization, with a modern tech stack and SEO best practices in place. However, the security posture shows room for improvement, lacking advanced security headers and vulnerability disclosure mechanisms. Privacy compliance is minimal, with no visible privacy or cookie policies, which could pose regulatory risks. Overall, the domain registration is consistent and legitimate, with no blocking or WAF detected, indicating accessible and functional content.

N

North Carolina Longform Magazine Inc.

theassemblync.com

62

The Assembly NC is a specialized digital magazine focused on delivering in-depth news and investigative journalism about North Carolina. It targets readers interested in local politics, culture, environment, and business, offering subscription-based newsletters and sponsored content. The website is professionally designed with excellent content quality and consistent branding, positioning itself as a trusted regional media outlet. Technically, the site is built on WordPress with modern SEO and performance optimizations, including AMP support and integration of analytics and advertising platforms. Security posture is solid with HTTPS enforced and use of reCAPTCHA on forms, though explicit privacy and cookie policies are absent, representing a compliance gap. The lack of WHOIS data is a notable concern for domain legitimacy, but the active content and social presence suggest a legitimate operation. Overall, the site scores well on content and technical implementation but should improve privacy compliance and domain transparency.

L

Local Media Association + Local Media Foundation

localmedia.org

62

Local Media Association and Local Media Foundation operate as a combined entity focused on supporting and sustaining local media companies across the United States. Established in 2008, they serve over 3,000 media organizations including newspapers, broadcasters, and digital news sites, providing resources, programs, and philanthropic initiatives to help reinvent business models for news. Their market position is that of a trusted non-profit leader in the local media ecosystem, emphasizing sustainability and innovation. Technically, the website is built on WordPress using modern plugins such as Yoast SEO Premium, Jetpack, and Events Manager, indicating a mature digital infrastructure. The site is mobile-optimized, accessible, and SEO-friendly, with moderate performance. Hosting appears to be via GoDaddy, and the site uses HTTPS with a valid SSL certificate, though DNSSEC is not enabled. From a security perspective, the site employs HTTPS and domain registration protections but lacks visible security headers and explicit security or incident response policies. No vulnerabilities or exposed sensitive data were detected. Privacy compliance is limited, with no visible privacy or cookie policies or consent mechanisms, which is a notable gap for GDPR and other regulations. Overall, the website is professional, trustworthy, and well-branded, but could improve privacy compliance and security transparency. Strategic recommendations include enabling DNSSEC, adding security headers, publishing privacy and cookie policies, and establishing a vulnerability disclosure process to enhance trust and compliance.

B

BlueLena

bluelena.io

60

BlueLena is a specialized technology company providing audience and fundraising management solutions tailored for independent news organizations and publishers. Founded in 2020, it has established a strong market presence with over 250 clients across North America, offering a SaaS platform integrated with strategic consulting services. The website reflects a mature digital presence built on WordPress with modern marketing and analytics integrations, demonstrating good technical infrastructure and user experience. Security posture is solid with HTTPS and domain protections, though improvements are recommended in DNS security and formal security disclosures. Privacy compliance is partial, with a privacy policy present but lacking cookie consent mechanisms. Overall, BlueLena presents as a credible and professional business with a focused niche in media technology.

H

Happy Horizon

webber.nl

67

Happy Horizon is a full service marketing bureau based in the Netherlands, established in 2004. The company offers a comprehensive suite of services including online marketing, branding, web development, and data analytics, positioning itself as a creative digital agency. The website reflects a medium-sized business with a consistent brand presence and a focus on serving businesses seeking end-to-end marketing solutions. Technically, the website is built on WordPress and integrates modern marketing and analytics tools such as HubSpot and Google Tag Manager, with a cookie consent mechanism implemented via Cookiebot. The site is mobile optimized and demonstrates good SEO practices. Security-wise, the website uses HTTPS with a good SSL configuration and employs Google reCAPTCHA to mitigate bot traffic. However, there is room for improvement in security headers and publishing explicit security policies. Privacy compliance is partially addressed through cookie consent, but lacks a visible privacy policy and terms of service. Overall, the domain registration data aligns well with the business claims, indicating legitimacy and stability.

The website distilled.net serves as a transitional landing page announcing the merger of Distilled into Brainlabs, a global digital-first media agency. The business focus is on SEO and integrated digital marketing services including planning, media, data, technology, and creative UX. The site primarily redirects users to brainlabsdigital.com, reflecting a consolidation of brand and services under Brainlabs. The domain is well-established with a 15-year history consistent with the business timeline. Technically, the site is built on WordPress hosted on WPEngine, using standard plugins and libraries such as jQuery and Genesis Blocks. Performance and mobile optimization are basic but functional. Security posture is moderate with HTTPS enabled but lacking advanced security headers and DNSSEC. No privacy or cookie policies are present, indicating compliance gaps. Contact information is limited but clearly presented in the footer. Overall, the site functions as a simple brand transition page rather than a full service portal.

D

Days Of The Year

daysoftheyear.com

70

Days Of The Year is a media content website specializing in providing a comprehensive guide to worldwide holidays, events, and unique national observances. The site targets a broad audience interested in cultural, funny, and unusual holidays, leveraging content and advertising as its primary business model. The website is built on WordPress and utilizes modern web technologies including jQuery, Algolia for search, and multiple advertising networks such as Freestar and Google DoubleClick. SEO is well implemented with structured data and meta tags, enhancing discoverability and user engagement. Security posture is strong with HTTPS enforced and no visible vulnerabilities, although explicit security policies are not publicly disclosed. The absence of WHOIS data for the domain introduces some uncertainty regarding domain legitimacy, but the website's content quality and social media presence support its credibility. Privacy and cookie policies are present and indicate GDPR compliance, though contact information is limited. Overall, the site demonstrates a mature digital presence with room for improvement in transparency and contact accessibility.

P

Polemic Digital

polemicdigital.com

64

Polemic Digital is a specialist SEO consultancy focused on providing award-winning search engine optimisation services to publishers worldwide. The company positions itself as a niche expert in SEO for the publishing industry, leveraging its expertise to deliver tailored consultancy services. The website is professionally designed using the Wix platform, indicating a moderate level of digital maturity with good SEO and mobile optimization. Security posture is solid with HTTPS enforced and some security hardening scripts in place, but lacks explicit security headers and incident response information. The absence of WHOIS data for the domain raises concerns about domain registration legitimacy, although the live and professional website suggests legitimate business operations. Strategic recommendations include adding comprehensive privacy and cookie policies, improving security headers, and publishing incident response contacts to enhance trust and compliance.

أ

أراجيك

arageek.com

61

أراجيك is a prominent Arabic youth magazine targeting millennials interested in technology, arts, science, and reading. The website positions itself as a leading media outlet in the Arabic-speaking youth segment, offering diverse content including articles, videos, and encyclopedic knowledge. Technically, the site is built on modern frameworks such as Next.js and Chakra UI, with integrations for analytics and marketing tools like Google Analytics and ConvertBox. The website demonstrates good mobile optimization, accessibility, and SEO practices, though performance is moderate. Security-wise, HTTPS is enforced, but the absence of security headers and lack of visible privacy or cookie policies indicate room for improvement. The WHOIS data is missing or unavailable, which raises concerns about domain legitimacy despite the professional appearance and active content. Overall, the site is functional and credible but should enhance privacy compliance and security posture to strengthen trust and regulatory adherence.

V

Voices.com

voices.com

71

Voices.com operates as a leading global online marketplace specializing in connecting clients with professional voice actors. The platform facilitates quick and easy hiring processes, allowing users to post jobs, receive auditions, and obtain quotes efficiently. The website demonstrates a strong market position within the media sector, targeting businesses and individuals seeking voice over talent. Technically, the site is built on WordPress with performance optimizations such as NitroPack and employs modern web technologies including Google Tag Manager and Font Awesome. The site is mobile-optimized, accessible, and SEO-friendly, reflecting a mature digital infrastructure. Security posture is robust with HTTPS enforcement and appropriate security headers, though explicit security policies and incident response contacts are not publicly available. Overall, the site is professional, trustworthy, and compliant with privacy regulations, though WHOIS data is unavailable, slightly impacting domain trust assessment.

M

Mediahuis

telegraaf.nl

62

De Telegraaf is a leading Dutch news media website operated by Mediahuis, providing comprehensive news coverage including national and international news, sports, finance, entertainment, and lifestyle. The website targets Dutch-speaking audiences and operates a premium content model supported by advertising. Technically, the site uses modern web technologies such as React and Next.js, with strong mobile optimization and SEO practices. Security posture is robust with HTTPS, security headers, and consent management for GDPR compliance. However, explicit security policies and incident response contacts are not publicly available, which could be improved. Overall, the website demonstrates a mature digital presence with good privacy compliance and business credibility.

E

ESPN

espn.co.uk

62

ESPN United Kingdom is a leading sports media brand providing comprehensive sports news, scores, highlights, and commentary across a wide range of sports including football, cricket, rugby, and major US sports leagues. The website targets sports fans in the UK with a rich content offering and strong brand presence under the parent company, The Walt Disney Company. Technically, the site employs modern web technologies including JavaScript frameworks, service workers, and advanced ad management tools, ensuring a good user experience and mobile optimization. Security posture is strong with HTTPS enforcement and consent management, although explicit security policies and incident response information are not publicly available. The absence of WHOIS data due to domain naming rules error is a notable anomaly but does not detract significantly from the overall legitimacy given the brand recognition and content quality. Strategic recommendations include enhancing explicit security headers, publishing security policies, and improving accessibility compliance.

E

ESPN

espn.ph

66

ESPN Philippines is a localized edition of the globally recognized ESPN brand, providing comprehensive sports content including live scores, news, highlights, streaming services, and fantasy sports tailored for the Philippine market. The website reflects a mature media business model supported by advertising and subscription services, under the ownership of The Walt Disney Company. Technically, the site employs modern web technologies such as Prebid.js for advertising, Google Publisher Tags, and OneTrust for consent management, ensuring a robust and performant user experience across devices. Security posture is strong with HTTPS enforcement, multiple security headers, and no visible vulnerabilities or exposed sensitive data. Privacy compliance is well addressed with clear policies and consent mechanisms, although explicit security policies and incident response contacts are not publicly evident. Overall, the site demonstrates high professionalism, trustworthiness, and digital maturity.

E

ESPN

espn.com.au

63

ESPN Australia is a leading sports media platform providing up-to-the-minute sports news, scores, highlights, and commentary tailored for Australian sports fans. The website is part of the globally recognized ESPN brand, owned by The Walt Disney Company, and targets a broad audience of sports enthusiasts in Australia. The platform offers comprehensive coverage of popular sports including AFL, NRL, Rugby, Cricket, and Football. Technically, the site employs modern web technologies such as JavaScript frameworks, service workers, and advanced ad management tools, ensuring a fast, responsive, and user-friendly experience across devices. Privacy and cookie policies are well implemented with consent mechanisms, reflecting good compliance with GDPR and related regulations. Security posture is strong with HTTPS enforcement and use of security best practices, though there is room for improvement in explicit security headers and incident response transparency. Overall, ESPN Australia presents a professional, trustworthy, and technically mature digital presence with minor gaps in WHOIS transparency and security policy disclosures.

E

ESPN

espn.com.mx

67

ESPN México is a leading sports media website providing comprehensive sports news, live scores, and video content targeted at sports fans in Mexico and Latin America. The site is part of the globally recognized ESPN brand, owned by The Walt Disney Company, and maintains a strong market position in the media sector. The website leverages modern web technologies including JavaScript frameworks, prebid advertising, and advanced analytics tools to deliver a fast, responsive, and engaging user experience. Privacy and cookie policies are comprehensive and GDPR compliant, with active consent management implemented via OneTrust. Security posture is strong with HTTPS enforcement and appropriate security headers, though explicit security policies and incident response contacts are not publicly visible. Overall, the site demonstrates enterprise-level professionalism, technical maturity, and trustworthiness.

E

ESPN

espn.cl

67

ESPN Chile is a leading sports media website providing comprehensive and up-to-date sports news, scores, and video content primarily targeting Spanish-speaking audiences in Chile and Latin America. The site is part of the globally recognized ESPN brand, owned by The Walt Disney Company, and offers extensive coverage of various football leagues and other sports. Technically, the website employs modern web technologies including JavaScript frameworks, service workers, and advanced ad management tools, ensuring a responsive and engaging user experience across devices. The presence of structured data and SEO best practices further enhances its digital maturity. Security-wise, the site enforces HTTPS and uses consent management for privacy compliance, though additional security headers and explicit incident response policies could improve its posture. Overall, ESPN Chile presents a professional, trustworthy, and well-maintained digital presence with strong brand consistency and user engagement.

E

ESPN

espn.in

66

ESPN India is a leading sports media platform providing live scores, sports news, highlights, fantasy sports, and streaming services tailored for the Indian market. As part of the global ESPN brand under The Walt Disney Company, it holds a strong market position with a comprehensive digital presence. The website demonstrates a mature technical infrastructure leveraging modern JavaScript libraries, service workers, and performance monitoring tools such as New Relic. It employs industry-standard advertising and consent management solutions, ensuring compliance with privacy regulations including GDPR. Security posture is robust with HTTPS enforcement, security headers, and no visible vulnerabilities. However, explicit security policies and incident response contacts are not publicly available, representing an area for improvement. Overall, ESPN India presents a professional, trustworthy, and well-optimized digital platform with strong business credibility and technical maturity.

E

ESPN Brasil

espn.com.br

61

ESPN Brasil is a leading sports media brand providing comprehensive coverage of Brazilian and international sports including football, NBA, NFL, MLB, and tennis. The website offers exclusive news, blogs, videos, photos, and real-time event updates targeting Brazilian sports fans. The technical infrastructure leverages modern web technologies including JavaScript frameworks, advertising platforms like Prebid.js and Google GPT, and performance monitoring via New Relic. Hosting is managed through Amazon AWS, ensuring reliable delivery and scalability. Security posture is strong with HTTPS enforced and cookie consent mechanisms in place, although explicit security policies and incident response contacts are not publicly available. Overall, the website demonstrates a mature digital presence with good content quality and professional branding.