Five ways to spot when a paper is a fraud

Nature

by Stephanie Melchor

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Spotting fraudulent or low-quality research papers has become a critical skill in today’s world of science and academia, where peer reviewers face an overwhelming influx of questionable manuscripts. From AI-generated content to fake references and citations, identifying suspicious papers requires both vigilance and practical strategies. Science sleuths and researchers share their insights on how to detect such issues, emphasizing that while it may be challenging, it is far simpler than one might assume. One key approach is to thoroughly examine the references cited in a paper. Fake papers often include unrelated or fabricated citations, which can signal either payment for inclusion or reliance on mills producing low-quality research. Additionally, problematic papers frequently cite other retracted or flagged studies found on platforms like PubPeer. Misrepresentation of reputable sources or irrelevant links to claims is another red flag. Tools like Zotero and PubPeer’s browser extensions can help streamline this process by alerting users to potential issues in citations. Another critical area to investigate is the authors’ affiliations and credentials. Fake papers often claim authors from prestigious institutions that do not actually exist, or they use stolen identities. Checking for non-existent departments or researchers who appear to have no prior connection to the institution can expose these fabrications. Predatory journals may also pose as legitimate platforms, making it essential to verify the credibility of the publisher and ensure the paper has undergone proper peer review. The importance of detecting fraudulent papers cannot be overstated. Science relies on trust and integrity, and the proliferation of fake research threatens this foundation. By equipping reviewers and researchers with these strategies, we can collectively make it harder for fraudsters to succeed. Whether you are a peer reviewer, a science sleuth, or simply someone relying on scientific literature for your work, being able to identify questionable papers is not just a skill—it’s a responsibility that upholds the credibility of science itself.

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Originally published on Nature on 2/26/2026