PLAGIARISM AND COPYRIGHT IN ONLINE JOURNALISM

Ilinca FIODOROV, Universitatea de Stat din Moldova

Abstract

The digitalization of editorial processes is reconfiguring the production and circulation of content, with direct effects on copyright protection. The migration of journalistic activity to the online environment has increased the risk of unauthorized appropriation of content and has made it more difficult to identify the perpetrators of such practices. Although digital tools and an applicable regulatory framework exist, plagiarism continues to undermine professional integrity and the credibility of media institutions. This situation calls for strengthening prevention, monitoring, and sanctioning mechanisms, coupled with the development of an ethical culture in newsrooms. Ongoing training of journalists, clear internal procedures, editorial auditing, and the systematic use of similarity detectors can reduce violations. Active involvement of media institutions in promoting compliance with copyright, complemented by collaboration with professional organizations and authorities, is essential to reducing plagiarism and maintaining a responsible, transparent, and credible media space.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.59295/sum11(6)2025_16