Verification sources
Where can I check predatory journals?
Check predatory journal concerns in more than one place. A journal website can make claims; official databases and transparent policies help confirm whether those claims are reliable.
Maintained by the Beallslists.com editorial review team · Last reviewed: June 19, 2026
Best places to check
- This archive: search publisher and standalone journal names.
- Think. Check. Submit.: use the checklist to evaluate suitability before submission.
- DOAJ: check whether an open access journal is listed and whether its policies are transparent.
- NLM Catalog: verify MEDLINE and PMC-related journal information for biomedical titles.
- Scopus source list: verify whether the journal is currently indexed and whether there are title concerns.
- Web of Science Master Journal List: verify Web of Science and Journal Citation Reports claims.
- Your institution: ask a librarian, graduate office, ethics office, or research administrator when the evidence is mixed.
What not to trust alone
Do not rely only on a journal’s logo strip, “indexed in” page, impact-factor badge, or email invitation. Questionable journals sometimes display old indexing screenshots, unrelated database logos, or metrics that sound official but are not Journal Citation Reports metrics.
For medical journals, pay special attention to the difference between a journal indexed in MEDLINE, articles deposited in PMC, and individual citations visible in PubMed. These are not always the same thing.
People also ask
Where can I check a journal quickly?
Start with the archive, then verify indexing in official databases such as NLM Catalog, Scopus, Web of Science, or DOAJ as appropriate.
Is Google Scholar enough?
No. Google Scholar visibility does not prove peer review, editorial quality, or official indexing.
Who can help if I am unsure?
A university librarian or research office is usually the safest next step.
Useful external references
Use official databases and recognized publishing-ethics resources before making a submission decision. External links are provided for verification and do not replace your institution’s policy.