Identifying Predatory Publishers

What's it all about?

There is a growing number of providers who pretend to be publishers or organisers and who, under false pretences, recruit contributions to journals and conferences. Authors pay a fee for the publication of their contributions, which should cover the costs for the selection and the scientific evaluation. However, these providers do not carry out these reviews at all.

How can I recognize Predatory Publisher?

Scientific organisations and publishers have been dealing with this problem for some time.

The Helmholtz Association has compiled FAQs on this topic, which also refer to the campaign "Think. Check. Submit.", which offers helpful information in numerous languages, including German and English.

There are also databases that can be used as "white lists". The library has licensed the citation database Web of Science, in which you can search only respected journal titles. The Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ) can also be used. Open Access journals are indexed here if you have undergone a complex application procedure.

Our services

Articles once published in Predatory Journals can no longer be withdrawn. They can cause considerable reputational damage. If you have any questions on this topic, please contact the listed contact persons at the library. We keep your questions confidential and we will be happy to advise you.

In cooperation with the Graduate Institute (GI) we also offer a workshop on the topic. Please let us or the Graduate Institute know if you would like to participate next time. We look forward to meeting you.