There are a handful of red flags which indicate “predatory” or deceptive practices. Be on the lookout for:
- Misleading pricing
- The use of fake impact factors
- False claims of the membership of their editorial board
- Lack of transparency or false claims regarding the rigor of the peer review process
- Aggressive, indiscriminate solicitation
Keep in mind: predatory journals and publishers are entities that prioritize self-interest at the expense of scholarship. You can learn more about predatory publishers on
this guide.