Send the arXiv AI-generated slop, get a yearlong vacation from submissions

2026-05-15 · Source: AI - Ars Technica · Field: Science & Research — Research Methodology & Innovation, Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning · Depth: Novice, quick

Summary

The preprint server arXiv has implemented a new policy to combat AI-generated "slop" in scientific submissions, following instances of fake citations, unedited prompt responses, and nonsensical diagrams appearing in peer-reviewed literature. Announced by Thomas Dietterich, an emeritus professor at Oregon State University and a member of arXiv's editorial advisory council and moderation team, the policy states that inappropriate AI-produced content will result in a one-year submission ban for all listed authors. Additionally, future manuscripts from these authors will only be accepted after undergoing formal peer review by a journal. This measure is based on arXiv's existing moderation standards, which require "scrupulousness and care of preparation" in scholarly communication, and emphasizes that all authors are responsible for the content of their submissions, not the AI tools used.

Key takeaway

For research scientists submitting preprints to arXiv, you must meticulously vet all content, especially any generated by AI tools. Carelessly including AI-produced errors, plagiarism, or misleading information will result in a one-year submission ban for all listed authors and a permanent requirement for journal peer review before future arXiv hosting. Ensure your submissions meet arXiv's "scrupulousness and care of preparation" standards to avoid severe professional repercussions.

Key insights

arXiv now bans AI-generated content, imposing severe penalties on authors for non-compliance.

Principles

• Authors are responsible for all manuscript content.
• Scholarly communication requires scrupulous preparation.

Method

arXiv's moderation system identifies inappropriate AI-generated content, leading to a one-year submission ban and mandatory journal peer review for future submissions from all listed authors.

In practice

• Review arXiv's moderation standards.
• Verify AI-generated content for accuracy.

Topics

• AI-Generated Content
• arXiv Moderation
• Preprint Servers
• Publication Sanctions
• Author Responsibility

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by AI - Ars Technica.