Data Integrity Issues With Web-Based Studies: An Institutional Example of a Widespread Challenge (Preprint)

Abstract

UNSTRUCTURED This paper reports on the growing issues experienced when conducting internet-based research. Non-genuine participants, repeat responders, and misrepresentation are common issues in health research posing significant challenges to data integrity. A summary of existing data on the topic and the different impacts on studies is presented. Seven case studies experienced by different teams within our institutions are then reported, primarily focused on mental health research. Finally, strategies to combat these challenges are presented, including protocol development, transparent recruitment practices, and continuous data monitoring. These strategies and challenges impact the entire research cycle and need to be considered prior to, during and post data collection. With a lack of current clear guidelines on this topic, this report attempts to highlight considerations to be taken to minimise the impact of such challenges on researchers, studies and wider research. Researchers conducting online research must put mitigating strategies in place, and reporting on mitigation efforts should be mandatory in grant applications and publications to uphold the credibility of online research.