Intro
Google has begun rolling out its June 2024 spam update, which aims to enhance search results by targeting websites that violate Google’s spam policies.
Details of the Update
Google’s Search Liaison clarified that this update is focused solely on spam and not related to the algorithmic component of site reputation abuse. The latter will be announced separately.
Background on Google’s Spam Policies
Google regularly updates its systems to minimize low-quality and spammy content in search results. Spam updates target websites that engage in practices such as:
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Automatically generating content to improve search rankings.
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Buying or selling links to manipulate rankings.
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Posting thin, duplicated, or poor-quality content.
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Using hidden redirects or other deceptive techniques.
Recent Spam Updates
The last spam update in March impacted numerous spammy websites. However, some AI-generated content still managed to rank well, exploiting loopholes for an initial ranking boost. Analysis by Search Engine Journal’s Roger Montti revealed that some AI spam sites ranked for over 217,000 queries, with more than 14,900 appearing in the top 10 search results. These sites used tactics like rapid content churn, AI-generated images, and templated article structures.
Potential Impact on Search Results
The June 2024 spam update aims to refine Google’s spam detection capabilities further. However, closing loopholes can sometimes impact legitimate websites unintentionally. As a result, search rankings may fluctuate for some sites. Websites that violate Google’s spam policies or rely heavily on AI-generated content might see a decline in search visibility. Conversely, sites adhering to guidelines may benefit from reduced competition from spammy sites.
What to Expect
The June 2024 spam update may take up to one week to fully roll out. Once complete, Google will update its Search Status Dashboard. Website owners should monitor their search rankings to assess the impact of the update.
