Many agencies keep track of FOIA requests likely to generate media interest. The Department of Homeland Security list of ‘significant’ requests for 2012 includes everything from undocumented immigrants and UFOs to film cameos and Congressional correspondence.

All defense and military agencies filter and flag FOIA requests likely to draw media attention, according to documents released by the Defense Department. At least three MuckRock requests were among those kicked up the ladder for special review from Pentagon brass.