Google updated its Search spam policies to clarify that they also apply to generative AI features in Google Search. Using spam tactics to get your site or brand featured in AI Overviews, AI Mode, or other AI-generated responses can be treated as spam, and Google may take action against those sites, Google said.
What changed. Google updated the introductory line to say:
- “In the context of Google Search, spam refers to techniques used to deceive users or manipulate our Search systems into featuring content prominently, such as attempting to manipulate Search systems into ranking content highly or attempting to manipulate generative Al responses in Google Search.”
Previously, that line said:
- “In the context of Google Search, spam refers to techniques used to deceive users or manipulate our Search systems into ranking content highly.”
Here is a screenshot of the addition:
Why we care. There’s a lot of advice about how to rank and get cited in AI search engines. Some of it may violate Google’s spam policies. Review those policies carefully and make sure you’re not using spam tactics to gain visibility in Google’s AI-generated Search responses.
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