It's typical now, for better or worse. They have a story and want to publish, now. But have to ask for comment. So they ask for comment, count to 5 and publish with that disclaimer.
I don’t think there is much of any to worry about.
Like if they would write:
> The above source was never verified, but we swear we talked with a real person
And then call it a day. What kind of journalism is that?