Research Misconduct
Procedures for Handling Academic Malpractice

Definition of Misconduct
Research Misconduct at IJCIS is defined as fabrication, falsification, or plagiarism in proposing, performing, or reviewing research, or in reporting research results. It does not include honest error or differences of opinion. IJCIS is committed to preventing misconduct and takes all allegations seriously through rigorous investigative protocols.

Fabrication & Falsification
Making up data or results and recording or reporting them, or manipulating research materials, equipment, or processes, including changing or omitting data such that the research is not accurately represented.

Authorship Misconduct
Including "gift authorship" (listing authors who did not contribute), "ghost authorship" (omitting contributors), or submitting manuscripts without the consent of all co-authors.

Investigation Protocol
When misconduct is suspected, the Editorial Board follows these steps:

• 1. Inquiry: Preliminary review of evidence to determine if the allegation has merit.
• 2. Investigation: Formal examination of records and consultation with relevant institutions or experts.
• 3. Adjudication: Final decision by the Editor-in-Chief regarding the appropriate action.

Sanctions and Actions
If misconduct is confirmed, IJCIS will apply one or more of the following sanctions:

• Immediate rejection of the manuscript.
• Formal retraction of the published article with a public notice.
• Formal letter to the author's head of department or institutional dean.
• A formal ban from submitting to IJCIS for a specified period (e.g., 3-5 years).