This is true to a point. However, a much more appropriate response would have been "We are aware of the reports that we have been sending massive data to the N

This is true to a point. However, a much more appropriate response would have been "We are aware of the reports that we have been sending massive data to the NSA. If this was the case, I would not be able to confirm or deny it. I would just like you to keep that in mind as you report on this story." Simple, straight to the point, and contains worlds of meaning behind the plausible deniability. "No sir, I did not think I was confirming the existence of the program. I believed I was operating in compliance with all gag orders and just reminding people that these orders come with gag orders, so because everyone knows that I didn't think that would violate the gag order...." By issuing silly denials that didn't withstand more than a few hours of public scrutiny they look silly, cowardly, and dishonest.