Final answer:
The identity of a mandated reporter is kept confidential when making a report to the NYSCR, similar to the protections offered by reporter's privilege, under which journalists can shield their sources.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a mandated reporter makes an oral (telephone) report to the New York State Central Register (NYSCR), the identity of the reporter is generally kept confidential. This confidentiality is in place to protect the reporter, much like the concept of reporter's privilege offers protection to journalistic sources. Through reporter's privilege, journalists can refuse to disclose their sources, considering this protection a fundamental aspect of the freedom of the press as highlighted by the First Amendment. High-profile incidents such as Judith Miller's incarceration for not revealing her source in the Valerie Plame case, and Edward Snowden's leak of information about the U.S. government's surveillance activities, underscore the importance of confidentiality for individuals who come forward with sensitive information.