In a cautionary tale of unwittingly engaging with a predatory journal, an author shares their struggle to withdraw a manuscript after falling victim to deceptive practices. Despite facing challenges in communication and an unresponsive editorial board, the author successfully navigated the ordeal, shedding light on the importance of due diligence in scholarly publishing.
COPE Guidance:
The Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) provides valuable insights for authors in similar predicaments. Since there was no copyright transfer, the author is advised to proceed with publishing the manuscript in a legitimate journal, accompanied by an editorial note explaining the unfortunate experience. This approach ensures transparency and guards against any potential accusations of duplicate publication.
Additionally, COPE suggests considering legal action as a means to compel the predatory journal to remove the manuscript. Threatening legal steps can sometimes prompt cooperation from such entities, protecting the author's work from unauthorized dissemination.
Author's Strategy:
Despite facing initial communication roadblocks with the predatory journal, the author undertook persistent efforts, including certified letters and emails. When all traditional channels failed, the author resorted to a firm message to the publisher, threatening legal action if the article wasn't promptly removed. This approach prompted the publisher to request specific details, and upon providing the information, the author received assurance of removal.
Lessons Learned:
This incident underscores the need for authors to exercise utmost caution when responding to journal invitations. Vigilance in scrutinizing journal credibility, avoiding financial transactions without due diligence, and confirming copyright terms can safeguard against falling victim to predatory practices.
As the author proceeds with submitting the manuscript to a legitimate journal, the experience serves as a valuable lesson for the scholarly community, emphasizing the importance of diligence in navigating the complex landscape of academic publishing.