Google may have made some changes to their algorithms this week related to how they handle link spam and other forms of spam. Although Google has not confirmed an algorithm change, based on observed signals, there seems to be an update affecting those engaged in more aggressive link-building practices.
This update appears to have taken place around February 1, 2017. It could be an adjustment in how Google Penguin identifies and discounts spammy links, or possibly a completely new algorithm — the details remain uncertain. However, members of the “black hat” SEO community have noticed and are expressing concerns that their strategies are becoming less effective.
Some individuals report that their private blog networks (PBNs) are not performing as well as before. Others believe Google is taking longer to acknowledge new links, while some feel their sites might have been penalized.
Numerous Google search result tracking tools, including MozCast, Algoroo, and RankRanger, among others, show significant fluctuations around February 1.
Interestingly, many within the “white hat” SEO communities have not observed or complained about changes in Google rankings.
Based on the available information, it seems likely this algorithm update pertains to how Google devalues spammy links, possibly updating the Penguin algorithm or something similar.
It’s important to mention that Google has launched an algorithm update specifically for Google Japan and Japanese content recently, but this update is not connected to the aforementioned link adjustments.
