We get information in the mail, the regular postal mail, encrypted or not, vet it like a regular news organization, format it - which is sometimes something that's quite hard to do, when you're talking about giant databases of information - release it to the public and then defend ourselves against the inevitable legal and political attacks.

Julian Assange’s quote speaks to the complex process of information dissemination and the responsibility involved in releasing sensitive materials to the public. Assange, known for founding WikiLeaks, describes how they receive data—sometimes in the form of giant databases of information—and then vet and format it, much like a news organization would. This emphasizes the importance of making sure the information is accurate and presentable, despite the inherent difficulties involved in processing massive amounts of data.

The mention of encrypted or not points to the security challenges in handling sensitive information. Encryption is a way to protect data, ensuring that only authorized parties can access it. However, Assange’s acknowledgment of both encrypted and unencrypted information suggests that regardless of security measures, there is a responsibility to carefully assess and prepare the data before releasing it to the public. The process is not just about receiving the information but also about preparing it for mass distribution in a way that ensures its credibility and impact.

Releasing such sensitive materials comes with inherent risks, which Assange highlights when he refers to the legal and political attacks that often follow. As a whistleblower platform, WikiLeaks has been subjected to intense scrutiny and legal challenges, particularly from governments and corporations affected by the disclosures. Assange’s comment reflects his awareness of the consequences of exposing sensitive information, as these attacks can range from legal repercussions to attempts to discredit or silence whistleblowers.

The origin of this quote ties directly to Assange’s role in WikiLeaks, a platform that has played a significant part in bringing classified documents into the public eye. His words highlight not only the technical and ethical challenges of handling sensitive information but also the broader struggle for freedom of information in an increasingly secretive world.