[gremlinsinc]

Easy: Every journalist registers, gets a big bright vest with a HUGE QR code that can be read by any device within 30 feet.

Cops scan code: to verify, don't even need to go near them, easily know who to avoid... it's not fucking rocket science...

They see this as a war against the media and anyone who supports the protestors.

[Nexxius]

The journalists would see this as an impediment to them getting the "true story" (for whatever value of "X" that is) as it prevents them from "embedding" with the masses along with identifying the journo for violent actions. Not every "reporter" has a full camera crew. That being said, there were examples of the vest you describe at the DC "insurrection", or at least I saw some some journos wearing neon-yellow reflective vests stenciled with "REPORTER" on the live feed. Personally, I agree with you totally. Police & journalists should be clearly identified to better control things as it seems the default these days is to riot.