AI-generated answers that do not cite their sources create a risk of misinformation due to potential inaccuracies and fabricated content.

Many AI responses, especially those lacking citations, can include errors or 'hallucinated' facts—information generated without basis in reality. This occurs because language models predict plausible text rather than verify facts, making source transparency critical to discern truth from invention. Studies highlight that without clear attribution, users have difficulty assessing an AI’s reliability, which undermines trust.