What to do if a reader suspects that there is an undeclared conflict of interest (COI) in a published article?

A reader informs the editor of the CoI not disclosed by the author, then:

1. Thank the reader and inform them that you plan to investigate
2. Contact the author(s) and express your concern. It may be helpful to provide a copy of the journal's policy and its definition of CoI

Two possible situations arise here:

A. The author(s) provide the relevant details, then.

• Thank the author but indicate that this is a serious omission
• Publish, if applicable, a correction to the conflict of interest declaration
• Inform readers of the result

B. The author(s) deny that there is a CD, so we proceed:

• Clearly explain the journal policy and definition of COI, and obtain from each author a signed statement on all relevant COI (if not previously obtained
• Inform readers of the result

NOTE

To avoid future problems:

Always obtain a signed COI statement from all authors and reviewers before publication. Check that the journal's standards include a clear definition of CoI