The series of coordinated terrorist attacks in Indian financial capital Mumbai have gained worldwide attention, and the speed with which Internet users were able to read first-hand reports within hours of the initial attacks is proof of a revolutionized way that information reaches an audience.

Although mainstream news coverage has dominated headlines thus far, social media has been a major outlet for news at the scene and around the world. Internet users are sharing news and information for updates and reactions.

Poynter has listed a series of social media sources, some of whom include information produced "by professional news organizations and journalists," some of whom include Mumbai citizens present at the scene. Amy Gahran of Poynter advises readers to "use judgment" in trusting sources for citizen journalism, as sources and information can be unverified.

Sites such as Twitter are updated every few seconds with posts from eyewitnesses, reporters, or people with comments or information. Some use the chat service to assure friends and relatives that they're safe, or to post information about the terrorist group who claimed responsibility.

A "general search for Mumbai will collect everything" on Twitter, and users are advised to specify the search, and can also find geotagged "tweets" originating from within 15 miles of Mumbai.

Blogs are a frequent source for updates during a major event, and those within Mumbai offer a unique perspective. A Mumbai Help blog has been set up, featuring prominent Indian bloggers. Social news and citizen journalism sites, such as Global Voices, as well as sites such as Flickr, track coverage and can supply commentary and photos. Several videos, both professional and amateur, have already been posted on Youtube.

Wikipedia, a collaborative encyclopedia, had an entry within hours, providing "more details than traditional media sources could offer," although Wikipedia sources are often unconfirmed.

Professional sources from the South Asian Journalists Association host "live discussions with journalists and experts in Mumbai, and NDTV is streaming live Indian TV coverage.

The New York Times has even called for eyewitness coverage through photos and written accounts via its blog The Lede. CNN is also featuring reports and photos from web user "Vinu."

Dutch free daily De Pers is also covering the event on its website, Coveritlive, and having reporters use Twitter to disseminate news.

Qatar-based satellite network Al Jazeera posted a Google Maps page, which pinpointed the attacks and asked for viewer feedback for more details.

The multitude of sources used by professional news organizations to provide first-hand accounts of events is a testament to the changing outlets for news. Citizen journalism has become an important aspect of the news industry, adding to the "first draft of history."

Source: Poynter.org, New York Times, Newspaper Innovation, France 24, Mathew Ingram blog