Confidentiality

This section details the importance of maintaining confidentiality throughout the peer review process and provides guidelines for protecting manuscript information.

Confidentiality Principles

The peer review process is confidential:

• Manuscripts are privileged communications
• Reviewers must not share any aspect of the manuscript
• Discussion should only occur with the editor
• Identity of reviewers is typically kept confidential from authors

Handling Manuscripts

To maintain confidentiality:

• Store manuscripts securely, password-protected if digital
• Do not discuss the manuscript with colleagues without editor permission
• Do not use ideas or information from the manuscript in your own work
• Delete or destroy the manuscript after completing your review

Exceptions to Confidentiality

In rare cases, reviewers may need to consult with others:

• You may consult with colleagues if you acknowledge them in your review
• You must request permission from the editor before sharing the manuscript
• Those you consult must also maintain confidentiality
• Their input should be acknowledged in your review comments

After Publication

Even after a manuscript is published:

• Your role as reviewer remains confidential
• You should not publicly discuss your review
• You may not reveal that you reviewed a particular manuscript
• Exceptions may apply for open review models, which will be clearly indicated