In recent years, there has been a sharp increase in the retraction of academic papers due to issue of "paper mills". Multiple pieces of evidence indicate that papers produced by paper mills have infiltrated academic papers, posing a huge challenge to academic publishing integrity. This article summarizes the definition and specific manifestations of paper mills, the harm they cause, as well as the preventive and response strategies carried out by stakeholders. In addition, it puts forward suggestions and areas for improvement for the Chinese academic community in preventing paper mill issues. It provides a reference for strengthening the awareness and attention of researchers and journal editors to the problems of paper mills, promoting the implementation of more effective countermeasures, and maintaining research integrity.

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