Predatory publishing generally refers to the unethical and/or deceptive practice by certain publishers who exploit the open-access academic publishing model for profit without providing the standard editorial and publishing services associated with legitimate scholarly journals. These publishers often charge fees to publish in the advertised “journals” while failing to conduct proper peer review, provide transparent editorial policies, or ensure academic integrity. Early-career researchers are frequently targets of predatory publishers who try to take advantage of the high pressure publishing expectations in tenure-track or other research-intensive positions.
One thing to remember is that Open Access ≠ Predatory Publishing, there are many legitimate and well-respected open access journals in academia and open access scholarly publishing has been a model for many, many years. However, this model unfortunately has been used deceptively for profit and/or by inexperienced or negligent publishers. In either case researchers should be aware and look out for predatory journals to avoid submitting their work and paying fees to publishers who in return will not provide the expected services of a reputable academic journal. Publishing in predatory journals can harm a researcher’s reputation and contribute to the dissemination of low-quality or even fraudulent scholarship.
Misleading journal titles that resemble reputable journals
Listing fake editorial boards
Listed editors are the same for multiple journals
Not transparent about the peer review process
Stated impact factors that are deceptive or fraudulent
Misleading or untruthful statements about database indexing
Promises of a quick timeline to publication
To avoid predatory publishers, researchers are advised to verify journals through directories like the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ), consult a Roseman University librarian or seek recommendations from respected peers. Researchers should also consider using tools and resources available at Think. Check. Submit which is a website supported by many academic associations with the intent of providing scholars with information to help them make informed decisions regarding academic publishers.
Video from Think.Check.Submit: