Ethics and editorial standards

Accuracy

Facts are verified before publication. Where a claim cannot be independently confirmed, we say so in the story. Documents and data sets underlying our reporting are linked whenever we are permitted to publish them.

Independence

Reporters and editors do not accept gifts, travel or payment from the people and institutions they cover. Staff may not hold office in, donate to, or campaign for political candidates or committees. Financial interests that could create a conflict must be disclosed to the editor and, where relevant, to readers.

Sourcing

We name sources whenever we can. Anonymity is granted only when the information is of clear public importance and the source faces a credible risk of retaliation; an editor must approve every use, and the story explains why anonymity was granted.

Advertising and sponsorship

Advertising is sold by staff who have no involvement in editorial decisions. Sponsored material is labeled as such and is visually distinct from news reporting. Advertisers receive no advance notice of coverage.

Artificial intelligence

We do not publish AI-generated articles. AI tools may assist with transcription, data analysis or headline testing, but every published sentence is written or verified by a named journalist who is accountable for it. Photo illustrations produced with generative tools are labeled in the caption.

Dates and updates

Each story shows the original publication time and, where applicable, the time of the most recent substantive update. We do not silently rewrite published stories.

Questions

Write to newsroom@thechainbeacon.com with questions about these standards, or see our corrections policy.