Does AI-generated content change editorial standards?
Artificial intelligence is becoming an increasingly familiar part of newsroom workflows. As IPSO’s Standards Policy Officer, Elizabeth Steigenberger explains, this is bringing new opportunities, but also new questions about sourcing, accuracy and transparency
IPSO is aware of concerns about content that may be generated using AI, including material that appears to rely on synthetic, automated, or unclear sources. As ever, the Editors’ Code of Practice remains the benchmark for assessing standards. It applies to all published content, whatever tools are used in its creation.
Accuracy
Clause 1 of the Editors’ Code of Practice, the framework IPSO uses to regulate the press, says editors and journalists must take care not to publish inaccurate, misleading, or distorted information, including through misleading attribution. Comment, conjecture and fact should be clearly distinguished, and when significant inaccuracies do occur, they must be corrected promptly and with due prominence, with a fair opportunity to reply where appropriate.
Are you being accountable?
While AI-generated material can sometimes be difficult to spot, responsibility for published content always rests with the publisher. Editorial judgement, robust source-checking and effective oversight are as important as ever. If an inaccuracy or piece of misleading information comes to light – whether AI-related or otherwise – publishers should act swiftly in line with the Code.
Learning and progressing
We regularly speak to journalists, publishers, and members of the public to better understand how AI is being used in practice and how high editorial standards can be protected as technology evolves. If you believe an article may breach the Editors’ Code, including where AI-generated content or sources are suspected, a complaint can be made through our website.
Technology will continue to evolve. The standards that underpin good journalism endure.
Do you want to find out more?
Sign up for our webinar: Forewarned & forearmed – editorial standards in the age of AI. Featuring industry experts, the webinar will take place on Tuesday 24 March 2026 at midday. It will explore the emerging risks, best practice and the application of the Editors’ Code.
It’s not just editors and journalists using AI, but complainants to IPSO too. Read Complaints Officer Davina Wong’s blog looks at the use of AI by people complaining to IPSO.