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. (Grudniewicz et al)
Predatory publishing generally refers to the systematic for-profit publication of purportedly scholarly content (in journals and articles, monographs, books, or conference proceedings) in a deceptive or fraudulent way and without any regard for quality assurance [… so] these journals exist solely for profit without any commitment to publication ethics or integrity of any kind. (COPE)
Predatory conferences claim to be scholarly but are organized by an entity focused on financial gain rather than quality scholarship. The goal is to put together an agenda on a specific topic. The quality of the research is not vetted; rather speakers are selected based on their willingness to pay for their own registration fees and travel expenses. In other words, speakers who are willing to pay for the opportunity, are added to the agenda.