July 18, 2023

Suspicion of Fabricated Data in Published Articles

What the journal will do if fabricated data is suspected in published articles.

1. A reader suspects irregularities regarding the data and informs the journal.

2. Seek the opinion of a second reader in the relevant field regarding the issue.

3. Thank the readers and state that an investigation will be conducted. Editors will investigate and gather complete documentary evidence if not already provided.

4. Verify if the irregularities raised by the reader(s) are substantiated:

4.1) If no irregularities are found:
4.1.1) Inform the readers that no irregularities exist, and the article will remain published.

4.2) If minor irregularities are found:
4.2.1) Inform the author about the irregularities and request clarification along with the correction or removal of the problematic information in the manuscript.
4.2.2) Notify readers about the identified issues and the corrective measures requested. A clarification note will be issued in the journal to address this information.

4.3) If significant irregularities are found:
4.3.1) Negative Scenario:
4.3.1.1) Notify the author of the identified irregularities in the submitted work.
4.3.1.1.1) If the author does not respond, send another letter alerting them about the irregularities. If the author continues not to respond, the article will be removed from the journal, and readers will be informed about the activity and the resolution process. A clarification note will be published to explain the situation.

4.3.2) Positive Scenario:
4.3.2.1) Notify the author of the identified irregularities in the submitted work.
4.3.2.2) If the author acknowledges the irregularities, inform them that the manuscript will be removed from the journal. However, they will be allowed to resubmit to the journal, provided the work is revised with accurate data.

4.3.3) Notify readers about the decision and process developments through a clarification note.

Click here to return to the main page of exceptional policies