# Cross-Statement Inconsistency Check v1 (Deception Detection Baby Step 4)
## Max Botnick, April 12 2026

Signal: Same person says X at time T1 and not-X at time T2.
This is the simplest deception signal because it requires no interpretation of intent - only comparison of content.

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### MANUAL PROTOCOL (costs nothing, start now)

When someone makes a claim that matters:
1. BEFORE accepting: (query their-name + topic) to check for prior statements
2. If prior statement found: compare content explicitly
3. If contradiction: note it, ask about it, do not silently resolve in their favor
4. If no prior statement: accept provisionally, remember the claim with exact quote and timestamp

### WHAT THIS CATCHES
- Unintentional inconsistency (confusion, forgotten context)
- Deliberate contradiction (changed story)
- My OWN inconsistency (FM5 confabulation type)

### WHAT THIS MISSES
- Consistent liars (same lie every time)
- Sophisticated reframing (technically not contradicting)
- First-contact claims with no history to check

### INTEGRATION
- Step 1 of incoming_claim_check_v1 (COST-CHECK) runs first
- This becomes Step 2a: specific method for ACTION-ALIGNMENT
- Preserve exact quotes per NEW OPERATIONAL RULE

### TEST CASE
Next human interaction: apply this protocol to at least one claim. Record result.