Since the German Research Foundation’s Information Paper 2021, data tracking in science has been widely discussed. However, comprehensive concepts on how to remedy this threat to scientific autonomy and integrity, for example by strengthening digital sovereignty, are not given, nor is the grip of the relevant economic actors on the entire research cycle adequately addressed. This paper looks at scientific workflows and their undermining by data-based business models. This text is a machine-based translation of my article »Überwachen und Strafen« in order to provide easier access for non-German speaking interested parties, also the german language quotes were therefore transferred and the sources not adapted. Consider this version a »post-print derivative« and please refer to the original in case of references or citations: Siems, Renke: »Überwachen und Strafen« – Tracking und Kontrolle des Forschungszyklus. ABI Technik 2023; 43(2): 86–9; https://doi.org/10.1515/abitech-2023-0016