Editorial Policy

Last updated: March 2026

HotpotNews is committed to delivering accurate, fair, and trustworthy journalism. This Editorial Policy outlines the standards our editorial team follows when researching, writing, editing, and publishing content.

1. Editorial Independence

Our editorial decisions are made independently of our advertising and commercial teams. No advertiser, sponsor, or business partner has influence over our news coverage, editorial opinions, or article selection. Sponsored content is always clearly labelled as "Sponsored" or "Partner Content" and is visually distinct from editorial content.

2. Accuracy & Fact-Checking

We are committed to publishing accurate information. Before publication, our editors verify claims against primary sources, official statements, and authoritative references. We strive to:

  • Cite credible, named sources for factual claims
  • Link to original source material where available
  • Distinguish clearly between news reporting and opinion
  • Avoid publishing unverified rumours or speculation as fact

3. Corrections Policy

We take accuracy seriously. If an error is identified after publication, we will:

  • Correct the article promptly and transparently
  • Add a correction notice at the top or bottom of the article noting what was changed and when
  • Never silently delete or alter factual claims without disclosure

To report an error, please contact us at corrections@hotpotnews.com.

4. Author Standards & Bylines

Every article published on HotpotNews carries a byline identifying the author responsible for the content. Our authors are expected to:

  • Disclose any conflicts of interest relevant to their coverage
  • Clearly label opinion pieces as such
  • Adhere to this Editorial Policy at all times

Author profiles are publicly accessible so readers can learn about the journalists and contributors who produce our content.

5. Sources & Attribution

We rely on named, verifiable sources wherever possible. When sources must remain confidential, we explain why and corroborate information through independent means. We attribute quotes and data to their original source and link to primary materials.

6. Conflicts of Interest

Journalists and contributors must disclose any financial, personal, or professional relationships that could create a conflict of interest with their reporting. Editors assess disclosures and assign coverage accordingly. We do not accept gifts, free travel, or other benefits that could compromise our editorial independence.

7. Opinion & Analysis

Opinion pieces and analysis are clearly labelled to distinguish them from straight news reporting. The views expressed in opinion articles represent those of the individual author and not necessarily those of HotpotNews.

8. Privacy & Harm Minimisation

We follow responsible reporting practices when covering sensitive topics including crime, mental health, and personal tragedy. We do not publish private information about individuals without a clear public-interest justification.

9. Ownership Transparency

HotpotNews is an independent digital news publication. We are not owned by any political party, government body, or major corporate conglomerate. Our funding comes primarily from digital advertising and newsletter sponsorships. We believe readers have a right to know who owns and funds the news they consume.

10. Contact & Complaints

If you have concerns about our editorial content, a complaint about accuracy, or a tip for our journalists, please reach out:

We aim to respond to all editorial complaints within 5 business days.