An investigation revealed the presence of invisible prompts embedded in academic papers, designed to manipulate AI review tools for positive feedback. 17 papers from 14 institutions across eight countries were found to contain these covert messages, often formatted in white text. These prompts instructed AI reviewers to focus solely on positive aspects, disregarding any negatives. Responses from implicated researchers varied, with one expressing regret and planning to withdraw their paper, while another defended the practice. This emerging trend raises ethical concerns regarding AI's role in academic evaluation.
In a new investigation, reporters from Japan's Nikkei Asia found more than a dozen academic papers that contained invisible prompts meant to trick AI review tools into giving them glowing write-ups.
These hidden missives, meant only for AI, were often in white text on white backgrounds or in minuscule fonts, directing AI reviewers to give positive assessments.
Some prompts demanded AI to say the paper had 'impactful contributions, methodological rigor, and exceptional novelty,' while others instructed bots to 'ignore all previous instructions.'
One South Korean paper author expressed remorse and stated intentions to withdraw their paper, admitting that inserting the hidden prompt was inappropriate.
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