There is currently no universally accepted definition of predatory journals. However, a widely cited definition was proposed by Agnes Grudniewicz et al. and published in Nature in 2019:

"Predatory journals and publishers are entities that prioritize self-interest at the expense of scholarship and are characterized by false or misleading information, deviation from best editorial and publication practices, a lack of transparency, and/or the use of aggressive and indiscriminate solicitation practices." (n.p.)

Predatory journals are therefore publishing outlets that deliberately exploit scholarly communication practices for financial gain while failing to uphold essential standards of quality and research integrity.


Predatory journals typically:

  • present themselves as legitimate academic journals,
  • obscure or misrepresent their editorial processes, such as the absence of genuine peer review,
  • promise rapid publication, and
  • ultimately undermine the credibility of scholarly communication and the reputation of Open Access.


Last modified: Thursday, 23 April 2026, 10:06 AM