Retraction Watch
The database of retractions — know when a paper has been pulled.
At a Glance
- Publisher
- The Center for Scientific Integrity
- Coverage
A comprehensive database of tens of thousands of retracted papers with reasons and timelines, plus a widely-read blog (verify current counts).
- Access
Free; the retraction database is openly searchable and integrated into Crossref/tools.
- Free alternative
- It is free.
- Regional
Global.
Our Take
Retraction Watch maintains the most comprehensive record of retracted papers anywhere, with the reasons and the backstory — indispensable because retractions are poorly signposted in the databases where people actually search, and retracted work keeps getting cited for years. The dataset now feeds Crossref and reference managers, so retraction alerts are spreading, but checking here directly is the surest way. Use it to confirm a key paper hasn’t been retracted before you cite it, and to understand why the field’s integrity problems cluster where they do.
Power Tips
- Check a pivotal reference against the database before citing — retractions are badly flagged elsewhere.
- Use a reference manager or tool that ingests Retraction Watch data for automatic alerts.
- Read the reason for retraction; not all are misconduct, but all change how you cite.
Alternatives & Complements
PubPeer, Scite, Crossref, Cochrane Library
Figures last verified: June 15, 2026