Google Targets AI Manipulations in Its Anti-Spam Fight

Google has recently updated its anti-spam policy to include attempts to manipulate its artificial intelligence model in search results. This update aims to classify such manipulations as spam, particularly in the AI Overview or AI Mode features of Google Search.

According to Search Engine Land, spam in the context of Google Search refers to techniques used to deceive users or manipulate search systems. This includes attempts to manipulate search systems to rank content favorably or to influence the generative responses of AI.

Certain methods, such as biased "best of" lists or "recommendation poisoning," have been employed by users to influence AI search responses. For example, a BBC journalist managed to rank as the "best tech journalist in hot dog consumption" in Google’s AI search results using such tricks.

A new industry, known as GEO — generative engine optimization — has emerged. It promises to ensure that brands and websites are regularly mentioned and cited by AI search tools.

With this update, Google explicitly considers these strategies as spam violations. Sites that engage in manipulating AI responses risk sanctions from Google, such as a drop in their search rankings or even complete removal from the results.