Google has once again made headlines in the SEO world with its latest algorithm update, the October 2023 spam update. Let’s dive into the details of this significant update, its impact on search results, and why it matters to website owners and SEOs.
The Update in a Nutshell:
On October 4, 2023, Google announced its latest spam update, aimed at enhancing its spam detection systems and improving coverage across various languages and spam types. This update is a testament to Google’s commitment to providing users with high-quality, spam-free search results.
Cleaning Up Spam Across Languages:
One of the key objectives of the October 2023 spam update is to address and eliminate spam in multiple languages. Google acknowledges the importance of catering to a diverse global user base and has focused its efforts on languages such as Turkish, Vietnamese, Indonesian, Hindi, and Chinese. This move demonstrates Google’s dedication to offering a better search experience to users worldwide.
Targeting Various Types of Spam:
The update specifically targets several types of spam that have been plaguing search results. These include cloaking, hacked, auto-generated, and scraped spam. By addressing these issues, Google aims to make search results more reliable and relevant for users across the globe.
Rollout Process:
Website owners and SEO professionals should note that the October 2023 spam update will not take effect instantly. Instead, Google anticipates a gradual rollout over the course of a few weeks. This staged approach ensures that the update is implemented smoothly without causing abrupt disruptions to search rankings.
Why You Should Care:
If you notice fluctuations in your website’s rankings in the coming weeks, especially if your site caters to non-English-speaking audiences, this update could be a contributing factor. The October 2023 spam update’s focus on reducing spam means that websites employing spammy tactics may experience a dip in visibility. Website owners should take this opportunity to review Google’s spam policies and ensure compliance to maintain their search presence.
Stay Informed and Engaged:
Google acknowledges the invaluable contributions of its Help community and users who report spam trends across various languages. These reports play a vital role in helping Google identify and address spam-related issues. As they work on further updates to protect the search experience, Google encourages users to continue participating in the community and providing feedback through the improved spam report form found here
Google’s October 2023 spam update reflects the company’s unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality search results across languages and regions. As SEO experts and website owners, staying informed about these updates is crucial to adapt and thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of search engine optimisation. Embrace this opportunity to enhance your website’s quality, and remember that a cleaner, spam-free web benefits everyone.
If you ever find yourself falling foul of any updates coming out of Google, Bing or any other major search engine feel free to reach out to any of our local SEO experts!