Business Insider lets reporters use AI without telling readers

Business Insider Reportedly Lets Journalists Use AI Without Disclosure-What Writers Should Do Next

A new report says Business Insider is allowing writers to use AI for drafting, research, and image edits-without requiring disclosure to readers. The outlet still expects the final story to be the writer's original work, published under their byline, with full responsibility for accuracy.

For working writers, this signals a practical shift: AI is moving from taboo to tool. The opportunity is real, and so are the risks.

What Changed, According to Reports

Per a report from Status, cited by The Verge, Business Insider told staff they can use AI "like any other tool" for research, drafting, and image editing. The key line: no requirement to disclose AI assistance on published pieces.

The guardrail is clear: the byline still carries the accountability. Writers must ensure the final copy is theirs-not a pasted output-and factually sound.

Source: The Verge (industry coverage)

Why This Matters for Writers

AI can speed research, ideation, and first drafts, but it still hallucinates and fabricates. That puts your reputation-and your editor's trust-on the line.

Policies like this won't eliminate risk; they push it onto the byline. Your process becomes your safety net.

Practical Workflow If Your Outlet Adopts Similar Rules

• Scope with intent: define the angle, sources you need, and non-negotiable facts before touching AI.
• Use AI for scaffolding, not final copy: outlines, interview questions, and idea expansion are fair game.
• Source every claim: track where each fact comes from (docs, interviews, datasets). No orphaned assertions.
• Fact-check in layers: verify names, numbers, quotes, dates, URLs, and image rights independently of AI.
• Keep an audit trail: save prompts, drafts, and sources. If questioned, you can show your work.
• Rewrite in your voice: replace generic phrasing, add context, and cut filler. Your style is the differentiator.
• Protect confidentiality: never paste sensitive notes or embargoed material into public AI tools.
• Use plagiarism and AI-content checks as a sanity filter, not a verdict.
• Legal-sensitive topics (finance, health, regulation): escalate to editors or legal before publication.
• Image edits: confirm licensing and model terms; label composites in the CMS if policy requires.

Disclosure: Pros, Cons, and a Middle Path

If your outlet doesn't require disclosure, you still have a call to make. Transparent notes ("assisted by AI for research and outline; all facts verified") can build reader trust, especially on service journalism and explainers.

At minimum, disclose methods to your editor. Agree on standards that match the stakes of the piece.

Industry Signals

The company reportedly appointed an AI newsroom lead, and its parent has inked content-licensing deals with AI firms. Translation: AI-assisted workflows are being formalized, not experimented with on the sidelines.

Expect more newsrooms to set similar rules: permissive use, strong accountability, and evolving best practices.

Sharpen Your Edge

• Develop fast, reliable verification habits-your credibility depends on it.
• Learn prompt patterns for research, outlining, and interview prep-then refine by hand.
• Build a repeatable style process: outline → draft → fact pass → voice pass → legal/ethics check.

Useful Resources

Want a vetted toolkit and training paths for writers using AI? Explore curated tools and workflows for copywriting at Complete AI Training, or browse role-specific options at Courses by Job.