Author questions
Predatory journals FAQ
These answers are written for authors, reviewers, editors, librarians, and research administrators who need practical guidance before making a publication decision.
Maintained by the Beallslists.com editorial review team · Last reviewed: June 19, 2026
Common questions
What is a predatory journal?
A predatory journal is generally understood as a journal that uses deceptive, low-transparency, or low-quality editorial practices while presenting itself as a scholarly journal. The concern is behavior, not simply business model.
Is every open-access journal predatory?
No. Open access is a legitimate publishing model. Many open-access journals use rigorous peer review, clear fees, strong archiving, and transparent editorial policies.
Can a listed journal improve?
Yes. Publishers can change ownership, improve peer review, correct indexing claims, publish policies, replace misleading metrics, and request evidence-based corrections.
Should I use this archive as my only source?
No. Use it as a warning signal. Then verify the journal website, ISSN, publisher, peer-review policy, indexing records, metrics, APCs, and recent articles.
What is a hijacked journal?
A hijacked journal is a counterfeit website that imitates a real journal. The fake site may solicit manuscripts and collect payments while the legitimate journal is unrelated.
What should I do if I already submitted?
Save all emails, invoices, submission confirmations, and website screenshots. Check withdrawal terms, contact your institution, and avoid paying until you understand the publisher’s policy and your manuscript status.
How to use these answers
The FAQ is intended as a starting point. It cannot replace a current check of a specific title because publisher practices, indexing coverage, ownership, and journal policies can change. When a decision affects a degree, grant, clinical reputation, or promotion case, document the evidence you used.
What is the safest final step?
Before submitting, ask someone outside the publisher’s communication chain: a subject librarian, research integrity officer, senior co-author, department chair, or funder contact. Independent review is especially useful when the journal has some positive signs and some warning signs.
Useful external references
These links are included because they are practical, public starting points for researchers. They should be used alongside local institutional policies and the current evidence for a specific journal or publisher.