As a whistleblower, you help keep the government accountable for its actions. If you have second thoughts about telling your story, it is essential to recognize that protections are in place to keep whistleblowers’ identities safe. You do not have to reveal your identity to make a claim.
According to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, the information you provide is confidential.
When can the Commission disclose information?
All information you provide, including your identity, is confidential. You can request to keep your identity secret. However, a court order can compel the Commission to release your identity. Likewise, if the Commission determines appropriate circumstances to provide information to a governmental or regulatory entity, they can, as long as the information remains confidential.
How do you remain protected if you reveal your identity?
Whistleblowers have more than just identity protection. If your employer attempts to intervene or impede your communication with the Commission’s staff, he or she violates the Whistleblower Protection Act.
If your employer attempts to fire, demote or treat you differently because of the whistleblowing complaint, you may have a case against your employer. You cannot face harassment or workplace discrimination because of the whistleblowing complaint. Your boss cannot directly or indirectly attempt to remove you from the company.
If your employer fires you, you can bring private action within two years of the retaliatory act. If you win in a retaliation case, you may receive your prior position with the company and your employer may have to provide you with back pay as well as payment for litigation fees.