Top 7 Free Plagiarism Checkers for Code and API: Enhancing Code Integrity

Code and API plagiarism are significant concerns in the software development and academic sectors. Ensuring the originality and integrity of your code is crucial. Fortunately, there are several free plagiarism checkers available that can help you detect similarities and plagiarism in code and API. Here, we explore some of the best options, and discuss their features and usage.

1. Moss Measure of Software Similarity

Description: Moss is a widely used tool for detecting software plagiarism. It is particularly advantageous due to its extensive database of code, which allows for comprehensive comparisons.

Usage: To use Moss, you need to register for an account and follow the provided instructions. Moss is primarily command-line driven, requiring users to submit source code files for comparison.

2. JPlag

Description: JPlag is a popular tool for detecting similarities in programming assignments. It supports multiple programming languages, including Java, C, C , and Python.

Usage: JPlag offers a user-friendly web interface where you can upload your code directly and receive a report of similar submissions.

3. PlagScan

Description: PlagScan provides a code plagiarism detection feature alongside its text-based services. It is capable of analyzing code snippets to find similarities.

Usage: While PlagScan offers a free trial, its full features may be limited without a subscription. The free trial can still be valuable for preliminary checks.

4. Codequiry

Description: Codequiry is specifically designed for checking the originality of code. It provides detailed reports on code similarity.

Usage: Codequiry offers a free version with limited features. For more comprehensive checks, a paid plan is required.

5. Turnitin

Description: Best known for text plagiarism detection, Turnitin also has features for checking code submissions, particularly in educational settings.

Usage: While access is typically institutional, some features may be available for free trials, especially within educational environments.

6. DiffChecker

Description: Though not a dedicated plagiarism checker, DiffChecker is an excellent tool for comparing two pieces of code side-by-side. It can help identify areas of similarity visually.

Usage: To use DiffChecker, simply paste the code snippets you wish to compare. It offers a straightforward side-by-side comparison feature.

7. GitHub Copilot Code Suggestions

Description: Primarily a coding assistant, GitHub Copilot can sometimes highlight when code is overly similar to existing code in public repositories. However, it does not provide a traditional plagiarism report.

Usage: To use GitHub Copilot, you need a GitHub account. It is a powerful tool but may not be suitable for all plagiarism detection needs.

Considerations

Accuracy: No tool is completely foolproof. It is essential to carefully review the results provided by the plagiarism checkers. Privacy: When using online services, be cautious about uploading sensitive or proprietary code. Ensure that the service's privacy policy aligns with your needs. Limitations: Free versions often come with constraints, such as the number of submissions allowed or the availability of advanced features.

For the best results, consider using a combination of these tools based on your specific requirements. Utilizing multiple checkers can help you achieve a more comprehensive analysis of your code's originality and integrity.