Predatory Publishing

Navigating the complex landscape of academic publishing requires vigilance to avoid predatory practices. The following tools and checklists are esteemed resources that aid researchers in assessing the legitimacy of various publication venues:

• Think. Check. Submit.

Provides a step-by-step checklist to help researchers identify trustworthy journals and publishers, focusing on transparency, peer review standards, and publisher credibility.

• Principles of Transparency and Best Practice in Scholarly Publishing

The Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE), the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ), the Open Access Scholarly Publishing Association (OASPA), and the World Association of Medical Editors (WAME) are leading scholarly organisations that have collaboratively developed the Principles of Transparency and Best Practice in Scholarly Publishing. This document, currently in its fourth version (published September 15, 2022), represents an ongoing effort to uphold ethical standards in scholarly publications. Its wide dissemination is strongly encouraged.

• Be iNFORMed Checklist

Developed by Duke University, this checklist assists researchers in evaluating journals and publishers based on criteria such as editorial board quality, peer review transparency, and indexing status.

• A Guide to Identifying Predatory Journals and Publisher

Offered by the European Network for Academic Integrity, this guide provides a comprehensive checklist to identify warning signs of predatory journals and publishers.

Why These Checklists Are Reliable

• Global Endorsement: Developed by leading organisations and institutions committed to research integrity.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Address critical aspects of journal and publisher evaluation, including editorial practices, peer review transparency, and fee policies.
• User-Focused: Designed with practical steps and checklists, making them accessible and actionable for researchers at all levels.

Collectively, these checklists provide a robust framework for evaluating the ethical standards and legitimacy of journals, books, chapters, and conferences, empowering researchers to make informed decisions about where to publish and present their work.

The Principles of Transparency and Best Practice in Scholarly Publishing were developed collaboratively by COPE, DOAJ, OASPA, and WAME. First released in 2013 and now in its fourth iteration (published 15 September 2022), these principles guide ethical practices and transparency in scholarly publishing.

Key points include:

• Applicability to all content, including special issues and conference proceedings.
• Transparency in journal procedures, especially where practices deviate from outlined standards.
• Commitment to accessibility, diversity, equity, and inclusivity in all aspects of publication.
• Editorial decisions based solely on scholarly merit, avoiding bias related to nationality, ethnicity, political beliefs, race, or religion.
• Regular assessment of policies to ensure inclusivity and to avoid exclusionary practices.

These principles promote high ethical standards and inclusivity in scholarly communications.

For full details, visit the official page: Principles of Transparency and Best Practice in Scholarly Publishing.

Source: Open Access Scholarly Publishing Association, 2024

Be iNFORMed Checklist: A Tool for Assessing Journal and Publisher Quality

Developed by Duke University, the Be iNFORMed Checklist is an essential resource for researchers looking to assess the credibility of journals and publishers. This tool guides researchers through a systematic evaluation to ensure their work is submitted to reputable and legitimate academic outlets.

Key Areas of Evaluation

• Journal and Publisher Identity: Check for a professional website, clear contact information, and a well-defined mission.
• Editorial Board and Peer Review: Verify the credentials and affiliations of the editorial board and assess the transparency of the peer review process.
• Indexing and Metrics: Confirm inclusion in reputable databases like PubMed, Scopus, or DOAJ, and validate impact metrics.
• Publishing Practices: Ensure transparency in fees (e.g., APCs) and compliance with recognised open-access standards like Creative Commons licensing.
• Red Flags: Be wary of unrealistic promises (e.g., guaranteed acceptance), unverified claims, or poorly maintained websites.

How to Use This Checklist

• Step 1: Review the journal’s website and assess its transparency.
• Step 2: Cross-check claims about indexing and metrics in trusted directories.
• Step 3: Evaluate editorial policies, fees, and publication timelines.

For full details, visit the official page: Be iNFORMed: A Checklist for Evaluating Unknown Journals and Publishers

The Ethical Publishing and Dissemination Working Group of the European Network for Academic Integrity has developed a comprehensive guide to assist researchers in recognising and avoiding predatory journals and publishers. This guide provides a checklist designed to help scholars evaluate the legitimacy and reliability of academic outlets before submitting their work.

Key Features of the Guide:

• Detailed Checklist: Offers a step-by-step approach for evaluating journals and publishers based on criteria such as transparency, editorial practices, peer review standards, and publication fees.
• Ethical Publishing Practices: Focuses on promoting integrity in academic publishing and raising awareness of deceptive practices by predatory journals.
• Practical Tips: Equips researchers with tools to identify warning signs, such as unrealistic promises of quick publication, lack of editorial oversight, and false indexing claims.

For full details, visit the official page: A Guide to Identifying Predatory Journals and Publishers