Predatory conference scammers are getting smarter

The organisers of predatory conferences that promise much for a fee but fail to deliver are becoming ever more sophisticated in their efforts to ensnare unsuspecting researchers. Slick websites that copy well known conferences have duped senior researchers and those looking to make their mark in the field may be most at risk, swayed by offers to speak at seemingly high-profile international conferences. Efforts are being made to tackle this scourge but there are concerns that these fake conferences are undermining confidence in the system.