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Official statement

When Google identifies that a site regularly sells links, the action taken is often to ignore all links present on that site, rendering link purchases completely ineffective without the seller or buyer realizing it.
🎥 Source video

Extracted from a Google Search Central video

💬 EN 📅 11/06/2021 ✂ 15 statements
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📅
Official statement from (5 years ago)
TL;DR

Google can often disregard all links from sites engaged in link-selling practices. This makes purchasing links ineffective. SEO professionals should be wary of such strategies.

What you need to understand

Why does Google take such drastic measures?

Google takes a strict approach towards sites selling links. The aim is to maintain the integrity of its ranking algorithm by eliminating unfair advantages.

  • Preserving fairness in rankings.
  • Protecting the system from external manipulations.
  • Reducing the relevance of unethical practices.

    Which sites are primarily affected?

    These are often sites that are quite visible in niches that, through link selling, attempt to influence SEO. Google targets them to maintain its algorithm impartially.

    • Sites with a history of selling links.
    • Platforms known for these practices.

SEO Expert opinion

Is this the right approach for Google?

To be honest, Google's approach seems relevant in discouraging fraudulent practices. That said, the overall effectiveness of this measure remains to be proven since the exact contours of their detection are not always clear.

What nuances should be considered?

There is always a risk of error. Not all sites selling links are necessarily involved in harmful activities systematically. A degree of vigilance is necessary.[To be verified]. Data on the frequency of errors is not available.

Warning: Errors can impact the credibility of legitimate sites.

Practical impact and recommendations

How can I check that my links are not being ignored?

Make sure that your site does not offer external links to sites known for selling links. It is also crucial to maintain natural and relevant links.

What mistakes should I avoid?

Purchasing links in uncontrolled environments should be avoided. Additionally, dubious partnerships can harm your SEO reputation.

  • Regular review of outgoing links.
  • Using Webmaster tools to identify anomalies.
  • Collaborating with reliable partners.
    Adopting ethical linking practices is crucial. Consulting with a specialized agency could be beneficial for effectively adjusting your strategies.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Comment Google identifie-t-il les vendeurs de liens ?
Google utilise des algorithmes et signaux pour détecter les pratiques de vente de liens.
Est-il risqué d'acheter des liens ?
Oui, puisque Google peut ignorer ces liens et affecter votre classement.
Un site peut-il être pénalisé par erreur ?
C'est possible si Google se trompe dans l'identification des vendeurs de liens.
🏷 Related Topics
Links & Backlinks

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Other SEO insights extracted from this same Google Search Central video · published on 11/06/2021

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