Google has officially completed the deployment of its October 2023 Spam Update by October 20. The introduction of this anti-spam update was initially disclosed on October 4. According to Google’s announcement, this recent spam update was instigated in response to user input. Numerous users had reported an uptick in spammy search results while using their preferred languages.
Through this enhancement to its spam detection technology, Google aspires to enhance search outcomes for users across the globe. Here’s everything you need to know about the October 2023 Spam Update.
Google’s Spam Update
Google employs a combination of automated spam-fighting mechanisms and human assessments to detect and downgrade pages and websites breaching its guidelines. Among these tools is SpamBrain, an AI-driven system that continuously improves its ability to detect evolving spam tactics.
Google periodically releases updates of this nature to proactively address emerging spam trends and maintain the quality of its search results. We urge websites affected by the new spam filters to review Google’s policies and ensure their adherence to them.
What is Spam, According To Google?
Within its spam policy documentation, Google outlines prohibited practices. Some key elements that Google deems as spammy or deceptive include:
1. Concealed text or links that are invisible to users but detectable by search engines.
2. Automatically generated content that offers minimal or no value to users.
3. Unauthorized large-scale scraping of articles.
4. Pages flooded with intrusive advertisements that result in a poor user experience.
5. Affiliate pages with insufficient content primarily focused on monetization.
6. Google may label websites as spammy if they employ tactics such as cloaking, deceptive redirects, or the creation of “doorway” pages, which are designed to deceive search engines.
7. Google’s guidelines also discourage aggressive commercial strategies involving false claims or misrepresentations of products or services.
Websites are encouraged to prioritize providing an honest, transparent, and user-centric experience. Those that do so should continue to perform well, even in the face of spam-related updates.
What to Expect?
The complete deployment of the October 2023 Spam Update throughout Google’s search index will span several weeks.
During this period, Google urges users to persist in providing feedback through its spam reporting tool.
Google’s ongoing battle against spam is an ever-evolving endeavour to adapt to changing tactics. The company acknowledges the valuable contribution of users who report spam, as it assists in validating and determining the key areas for directing their anti-spam initiatives.