Fact-Checking & Editorial Standards
Last updated: October 2025
At CRN Times, accuracy, transparency, and accountability are at the core of our journalism. This page explains how we verify information, correct mistakes, and uphold ethical reporting standards in every story we publish.
1. Our Editorial Principles
- Accuracy First: Every fact, quote, and figure is verified with credible primary sources before publication.
- Independence: Editorial decisions are made without political, corporate, or personal influence.
- Transparency: We disclose potential conflicts of interest and label opinion or sponsored content clearly.
- Accountability: We correct errors promptly and visibly when they occur.
2. Fact-Checking Process
Our newsroom uses a multi-layer verification process before any article is published:
- Reporters collect information from at least two independent sources whenever possible.
- Editors cross-check all numerical data, names, and dates for consistency.
- Quotes are verified directly with the source or official transcripts.
- When citing data or research, we link to the original study or database.
- Any AI-assisted content is reviewed by human editors prior to release.
3. Use of Anonymous Sources
Anonymous sources are used only when the information serves the public interest and the source faces genuine risk if identified. Editors must approve such use and confirm the credibility and motivation of the source before publication.
4. Corrections & Updates
When a factual error is identified, we:
- Correct it immediately within the article.
- Add a dated note explaining what was changed.
- Update associated social-media posts where applicable.
Readers may request a correction by emailing corrections@crntimes.com.
5. Editorial Review & Oversight
Each piece of content undergoes a three-tier review:
- Reporter Review: Verifies facts and sources before submission.
- Section Editor Review: Checks structure, tone, and balance.
- Final Editorial Oversight: The Editor-in-Chief, Maria Perez, ensures compliance with CRN Times’ ethical code.
6. Distinguishing News, Opinion & Sponsored Content
- News articles report verified facts without personal opinion.
- Opinion pieces are labeled clearly and represent the author’s views only.
- Sponsored content is marked “Sponsored” or “Advertisement.”
7. Ethical Guidelines
- We follow the Ethical Journalism Network and Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) codes.
- We respect privacy unless there is overriding public interest.
- We never accept gifts or favors in exchange for coverage.
8. Reader Feedback & Participation
We welcome reader feedback to maintain accuracy and trust. Please contact our editorial desk at editorial@crntimes.com for concerns about factual accuracy or ethical standards.
9. Continuous Improvement
Our fact-checking process is reviewed quarterly to adapt to new technologies, misinformation risks, and best practices. Editors and reporters receive ongoing training in verification, data literacy, and digital forensics.
10. Contact
For media-ethics or standards inquiries:
Email: standards@crntimes.com
Address: CRN Times Headquarters, 123 Media Street, London, UK