In an effort to improve search quality, Google recently announced a significant update aimed at tackling “low-quality pages created not for humans but to rank high in Google search.” These pages, often referred to as “junk pages” or “SEO-optimized content,” prioritize search engine optimization (SEO) tactics over delivering valuable information to users.
The update, which includes both algorithm adjustments and revised spam policies, specifically targets content that:
- Lacks real value: This includes pages with thin content, irrelevant information, or misleading promises of reviews, deals, or discounts.
- Prioritizes SEO over user experience: This encompasses content crammed with keywords, excessive use of automated content generation, and poor website design that hinders user navigation.
- Engages in deceptive practices: This includes expired websites repurposed for spam, “obituary spam,” and other manipulative tactics.
By downranking these types of pages, Google aims to elevate high-quality, informative content that genuinely caters to user needs. This update comes in response to growing concerns about the prevalence of low-quality content in search results, which can hinder users’ ability to find trustworthy and relevant information.
The impact of this update remains to be seen, but it has the potential to significantly alter the landscape of SEO practices. Websites and content creators will likely need to prioritize user experience and genuine value creation to maintain good search rankings in the future.
Today we announced the March 2024 core update & new spam policies that, in combination, are designed to show less content made to attract clicks and more content that people find useful. Learn more: https://t.co/wQVZ8mExRB
— Google Search Central (@googlesearchc) March 5, 2024
“We’ll now consider very low-value, third-party content produced primarily for ranking purposes and without close oversight of a website owner to be spam. We’re publishing this policy two months in advance of enforcement on May 5, to give site owners time to make any needed changes.” – Google says
Image Courtesy: Unsplash