2025/02/17 by Sanghita De, Parikshit Mondal · 1 voice
Social Sciences · Computer Science · #Misinformation and Its Impacts #Academic integrity and plagiarism #Hate Speech and Cyberbullying Detection
paper · doi:10.1080/0361526x.2025.2471922
openalex publication_date 2025/02/17 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/06/15
This article examines the impact of predatory journals on academic integrity, revealing significant imbalances in their prevalence and influence. Using a mixed-methods approach that combines quantitative data and qualitative survey findings, the study identifies key factors driving the proliferation of these journals, including the pressure to publish, limited access to reputable outlets, and financial constraints. The research highlights the dangers of misinformation in critical fields such as medicine, engineering, technology, and agriculture. It also raises concerns about the effectiveness of widely-used academic databases in filtering out predatory journals, questioning the reliability of indexing systems. A survey of 118 researchers reveals substantial gaps in identifying and avoiding predatory journals, emphasizing the need for improved education and training. The findings advocate for more rigorous journal evaluation practices and emphasize the role of academic institutions in promoting awareness. By integrating survey results and data analysis, the study proposes a holistic framework underscoring the role of information professionals in combating misinformation. Ultimately, the article calls for collaborative efforts among academic institutions, policymakers, and the global research community to safeguard scholarly integrity and address the proliferation of predatory journals.