This is what happens when information is official. Example: I have been communicated by an agent who has credibility and competence in this area. On the contrary, there are many forms of rumors that have no official validity, precisely because they are not supported by solid or simply consistent sources of information.
However, it may happen that something is true and has been known unofficially, only knowing in this way is a form of information that always leads to speculation. In this case, it is data that is known unofficially.
An example can be; "Once possible countries willing to contribute troops for a specific mission have been identified, the Secretariat will contact these countries unofficially to determine their interest in participating in the proposed mission."
Another example; The latest news of a known couple that occupies pages in the pink press are not official until one of the two protagonists of the news takes a position on the matter and confirms the rumors. The same can happen with a news story related to politics.
Journalists working in the media and carrying out investigative work can even consult unofficial sources of information to produce a report on a current topic whose importance may be important to the public interest. The purpose of a journalist is to be able to work from sources of information that convey trust.
Sources are the foundation of responsible journalism. However, in the journalistic work that many professionals carry out in today's society, it is also important to highlight the value of research. And this investigation is completed through different means of consultation. A third example may be an unofficial source that may be the support to bring to light information that you would not otherwise know.
