Wikipedia bans using AI for creating and editing articles

In an effort to maintain the quality and trustworthiness of its content, the world’s largest online encyclopedia has tightened its rules regarding artificial intelligence.

Why it matters

The English-language Wikipedia notes that the rise of AI-generated text raises serious questions about content accuracy. Modern language models produce writing almost indistinguishable from human authors, which threatens the platform’s core principles of source verification and factual reliability.

New rules

Under the updated policy, editors are prohibited from using AI to draft new articles or modify existing ones. Administrators emphasize that LLMs can unintentionally alter meaning or introduce errors, even when provided with precise instructions.

When AI is allowed

AI use is permitted for refining pre-written content, such as stylistic adjustments, typo corrections, and improving phrasing. All such edits must be carefully reviewed by humans. AI can also assist with translations, but editors must be fluent in both languages and personally verify accuracy before publishing.

Administration comment

Ilyas Leble, an administrator of the English Wikipedia, stated: “We hope these new rules will serve as a guide for other communities to determine how to safely integrate artificial intelligence into editorial workflows.”

Monitoring and recommendations

Wikipedia has issued guidance for moderators on identifying AI-generated content. At the same time, the platform acknowledges that some experienced editors write in a style similar to AI, increasing the risk of false positives. Currently, these restrictions apply only to the English Wikipedia and do not extend to other language editions.