A federal judge has barred the Justice Department from searching electronic devices seized from Hannah Natanson, ruling that the court itself will review the material for documents related to a national security probe.

The FBI had raided Natanson’s home in January over an investigation into a government contractor accused of improperly retaining classified documents, confiscating her phone, laptops, recorder, hard drive, and watch.

Magistrate Judge William Porter criticized the government for failing to address the Privacy Protection Act, which safeguards journalists’ First Amendment rights, calling the omission a serious flaw.

Porter acknowledged the government’s concern over potential classified information but emphasized that allowing an unrestricted search by authorities could jeopardize Natanson’s sources and First Amendment protections, The Guardian has reported.

The Washington Post described the ruling as a “victory,” noting it protects Natanson’s work and helps prevent a chilling effect on future whistleblowers and sources.