With the unbridled creation of new scientific journals several fraudulent journals have emerged. The aim of this work was to perform a mini-narrative review of clone and ghost periodicals and teach rules to ensure publication in suitable journals. In relation to the number of ghost journals, the health area represents the second place, behind only the human and social sciences. A considerable part of people is unaware of both ghost and cloned journals. Essential elements to avoid submitting and publishing articles in these journals include making sure that it is an indexed, legitimate journal (true website), with defined scope, editorial board and peer review and transparency about the editorial process and costs (or gratuity) of open access. It is necessary that a national policy of research ethics includes professional training in ethics in publications and establishes mechanisms to control the practices of scientific misconduct of those involved.