What You Need to Know
Language models predict plausible text. When they lack the facts, they still produce fluent output, including invented citations, statutes, and statistics.
Why It Matters
People have submitted fabricated sources in legal, medical, and academic work because the writing sounded authoritative.
Warning Signs checklist
- Citations that do not resolve to a real source
- Specific numbers with no origin
- Answers that change when you ask again
- Confident claims about very recent events
How to Protect Yourself steps
- 1Verify every fact you intend to rely on
- 2Ask for sources and open them yourself
- 3Use AI for drafting and structure, not final truth
- 4Cross-check anything with legal, medical, or financial stakes
Quick Checklist
- Verify every fact you intend to rely on
- Ask for sources and open them yourself
- Use AI for drafting and structure, not final truth
- Cross-check anything with legal, medical, or financial stakes
Helpful Resources
- The Curiosity EditLong-form essays on cyber, AI, and everyday technology.
- Career GalaxyDiscover the careers built around this exact problem.
- Government resourcesOfficial reporting and recovery links, being verified before we publish them.
- Trusted nonprofitsCommunity partners offering free education and support, list in progress.
Follow the Rabbit Hole