Top Swedish AI researcher investigated for AI-fabricated references

One of Sweden’s most prominent AI researchers is under investigation for scientific misconduct after her new book included a reference list that the AI tool she used had “hallucinated.” She now risks an official reprimand. “We are seeing an increase in cases related to references,” says Jonas Jeppson of NPOF, the Swedish National Board for Assessment of Research Misconduct. The case highlights a growing problem as more academics rely on generative AI for writing. The researcher, who specializes in responsible AI, reportedly used the tool to compile sources, but the program invented several citations that did not exist. NPOF is now reviewing whether the incident constitutes deliberate misconduct or negligence. A formal finding could damage her credibility and career, though no decision has been made public yet. The investigation is part of a broader trend: Swedish research bodies report more cases where AI-generated content leads to false references, raising questions about accountability in the age of automated writing.