Misconduct Research Policy for Journal of Information Technology and Cyber Security (JITCS)

Purpose:

Journal of Information Technology and Cyber Security (JITCS) is committed to upholding the highest ethical standards in research and publication. This Misconduct Research Policy aims to prevent and address misconduct in research, ensuring the integrity, credibility, and trustworthiness of the articles published in JITCS, in accordance with the standards set forth by the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE).

Policy:

1. Plagiarism: Plagiarism, including the use of others' ideas, words, or work without appropriate attribution, is strictly prohibited. Authors should accurately cite and reference all sources used in their research.

2. Citation Manipulation: Authors should provide accurate and relevant citations. Manipulating citations, such as excessively self-citing or inflating the importance of certain references, is considered unethical.

3. Data Falsification/Fabrication: Falsifying or fabricating research data, including but not limited to manipulating, altering, or inventing data, is a serious ethical breach and will not be tolerated.

4. Double Publication: Authors should ensure that their research is original and has not been previously published in whole or in part. Submitting the same research to multiple journals simultaneously or publishing substantially similar research in multiple journals is considered unethical.

5. Salami Slicing: Salami slicing, also known as "slice and dice" or redundant publication, refers to dividing a single study into multiple smaller publications without proper justification. Authors should avoid such practices, which can lead to the fragmentation of research and distort the scientific record.

Handling Misconduct: a. Suspected cases of misconduct should be reported immediately to the editor, providing detailed information and evidence. b. Editors will initiate an investigation and may seek external expertise if necessary. c. If misconduct is confirmed, appropriate actions will be taken, including but not limited to retraction of the article, notifying relevant institutions, and reporting the misconduct to appropriate authorities and databases.

Educational Measures: JITCS promotes awareness and education regarding research integrity and ethical conduct. Authors, reviewers, and editors are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the COPE guidelines and undergo training on responsible research practices.

Compliance and Enforcement: Authors, reviewers, and editors are expected to comply with this Misconduct Research Policy and adhere to the highest ethical standards in research and publication as outlined by COPE.

Note: Adhering to this policy is crucial in maintaining the credibility and integrity of research and upholding the trust of readers, authors, and the scientific community.