Google Confirms Leaked Documents on User Data Collection for Web Ranking
Google has confirmed the authenticity of leaked internal documents outlining how the company collects user data to rank webpages, after initially declining to comment on the matter. The leak, reported by The Verge, includes thousands of internal documents revealing insights into Google’s search algorithm.
According to SEO expert Rand Fishkin, who received the documents from a source aiming to dispel misinformation allegedly spread by Google employees, the leaked documents shed light on Google’s search API and are accessible to its employees.
Another SEO expert, Mike King, criticized Google for attempting to discredit individuals in marketing, tech, and journalism who have presented reproducible discoveries.
In response to the leak, Google spokesperson Davis Thompson cautioned against making assumptions about Google Search based on incomplete information. Thompson emphasized that Google has shared extensive information about how Search works and the factors it considers, while also working to safeguard the integrity of its results from manipulation.
Despite Google’s previous statements that it does not collect extensive user data to rank webpages, the leaked documents suggest otherwise. While Google asserts that it does not rely on data like Chrome user data and clicks to rank webpages, the leaked documents reveal insights into how Google handles sensitive topics like elections and its approach to small websites.
The leak has sparked discussions about Google’s data collection practices and its implications for SEO, marketing, and publishing industries.
