Introducing a new spam policy for "back button hijacking"
Google has updated its spam policies to explicitly target "back button hijacking." This deceptive practice involves manipulating a user's browser history or behavior to prevent them from easily returning to a previous page using the back button. Websites engaging in this tactic will now be in direct violation of Google's "malicious practices" spam policies.
For SEO professionals and site owners, this means ensuring their websites do not interfere with standard browser navigation. Implementing techniques that prevent users from using the back button could result in spam actions against their site, negatively impacting search rankings and visibility. Marketers should prioritize user experience and ethical web practices to avoid penalties and maintain a healthy online presence.
Brief by Black & Gold SEO · original reporting by Google Search Central. We summarize and link — full credit to the original publisher.