Definition
Plagiarism is the presentation of another person's ideas, data, text, figures, or code as one's own without proper attribution. It includes verbatim copying, close paraphrasing without citation, image reuse without permission, and self-plagiarism (reusing substantial portions of one's own prior work without disclosure).
Screening process
- All submissions are checked for text similarity using an industry-standard similarity-detection tool.
- The handling editor reviews similarity reports in context — matches to methods, common phrases, and properly cited quotations are not treated as plagiarism.
- Manuscripts showing substantial unattributed overlap are returned to the corresponding author with a written explanation.
Editorial action
- Before acceptance: manuscripts with confirmed plagiarism are rejected. Minor overlap is returned for revision with clear citation guidance.
- After publication: confirmed plagiarism triggers a correction, expression of concern, or retraction, following the Corrections and Retractions Policy.
- Institutions and, where relevant, funders may be notified.
Self-plagiarism and text recycling
Authors must disclose any overlap with their own prior publications, preprints, theses, or conference papers at the point of submission. Limited reuse of the authors' own methods text is acceptable when it is cited and clearly indicated.
Author responsibilities
- Cite all sources of text, ideas, data, figures, and code.
- Obtain permission and provide attribution for any third-party material reused in the manuscript.
- Declare related work — including preprints and prior conference proceedings — in the cover letter.
Related policies
Questions or concerns about this policy? Contact the editorial office at editorialoffice@aperturepapers.com.