The influence of search engine optimization is typically discussed in a positive and useful manner which is true! SEO, however, can be used in a not so positive manner. Individuals are able to use SEO and use it to make unethical decisions. Unlike black hat SEO, SEO scams and cons often occur between buyers and sellers and not directly put in place by the original site creator.
Guest Posts on Your Websites
Guest posts on a page are a great opportunity to enhance your SEO, but it can become a scam once the writer embeds a link to another website in the post that offers nothing to your business. The words in the post may later become a link. This has caused your website to become part of their “private blog network.” If the scammer has sold, the link that leads you to be in violation of Google’s terms and conditions. The scammer can come across as a writer who is just getting started. They may offer to write some work for you while they are trying to find some paid work. Be cautious!
The Google Partner
The Google Partner scam is often hidden in an initial outreach email. The email may include a multitude of other cons, but the implied endorsement from Google is what makes them appear legitimate. Google does not have a partner program for SEO specifically but does have programs for Google Analytics and Google Ads. The danger comes if your company employs a somewhat shady company and cannot fulfill what they advertise. Keep an eye out for misleading emails!
“This is Google. Your Listing is About to Expire…”
Often, individuals are unaware of how Google works, which creates a perfect opportunity for scammers to come in. Often the scammers will reach out through automated phone calls that alert to an individual’s Google “listing” expiring. This could lead to individuals paying for something that they do not need based on lack of knowledge. Make sure to register for a Google “My Business” account.
SEO scams and cons are only limited to those categories. It is important to be aware of all the different types of scams that individuals use to “aid” in your SEO. It can be easy to fall into those scams due to lack of knowledge about SEO. Being aware of SEO techniques and the possible scams that can stem from those techniques is a great place to start.
The Search Engine Journal was used for this blog. Check out their article to learn more.
One Response
I really like how you made this super easy to read with the strong SEO headlines and links! I think it’s important to remember that although SEO is used for a positive interaction with your users, it can be easy to think about cheating the system to streamline the process, like the dangers of guest posts you talk about