Wikipedia applies especially strict standards to articles about living individuals, due to the risk of harm to personal reputations—and livelihoods—from inaccurate or misleading information. Content must be based on high-quality, reliable sources, and anything that is unsourced or poorly sourced, flattering or critical, can be removed immediately.
Gossip, speculation, and sensational claims are not allowed, even if they appear elsewhere online. Editors are expected to exercise extra caution, avoid undue weight on controversies, and ensure that the tone remains neutral and respectful. These rules apply across the board, whether the subject is a public figure or a private individual.
