Rules catalog

118 enabled rules. Each rule is one yes/no question asked to the model (rating-scale rules ask for one lettered option on an SQRG scale); see Concepts. Detectability: P page alone, P+ partial evidence on the page, O needs off-page data. Category (spam, quality, helpful) = report section and risk level. SQRG = Google's Search Quality Rater Guidelines.

Google spam policies

Rule	What we check	ID	Ver	Category	Detect.
Affiliate page with copied product content	We check whether the page has affiliate or shop links while its product text is copied or lightly reworded from the seller, with no own testing or comparison.	SP-AFF	2	spam	P
Same service page copied for many cities	We check whether the title pairs a service with a city, the text is generic and would read the same for any other city, and the page just sends visitors to one business.	SP-DOOR-CITY	2	spam	P+
In-between page that only sends you elsewhere	We check whether the page has little content of its own and its main element is a link or button sending visitors to another page or site.	SP-DOOR-FUNNEL	1	spam	P+
Old domain reused for unrelated paid content	We check whether the address or old branding points to a former owner (a school, charity, office or local firm) while the page now shows affiliate, gambling, loan or pharmacy content.	SP-EXP	2	spam	P+
Hidden script code typical of hacks	We check whether the page's scripts decode a scrambled text and then run it as code, a common way attackers hide malicious code.	SP-HACK-CODE	3	spam	P+
Spam page added to the site by a hacker	We check whether the page sells pharmacy, casino, loans, replicas or adult content under a random-looking address on a site about something completely different.	SP-HACK-PAGE	1	spam	P+
Spam text inserted into a normal page	We check whether a normal page contains a block of unrelated spam phrases or links (pharmacy, casino, loans, adult) that does not fit the rest of the text.	SP-HACK-TEXT	2	spam	P
Links hidden behind a single tiny character	We check whether the page has a link to another site whose visible text is just one small character, such as "-", "." or "|".	SP-HID-CHAR	3	spam	P
Hidden block of keywords or links	We check whether the page has a hidden section that visitors cannot see but that contains a list of keywords or links to other sites.	SP-HID-NONE	1	spam	P
Text or links moved off the screen	We check whether the page places text or links far outside the visible screen so visitors never see them.	SP-HID-OFFSCREEN	1	spam	P
Invisible text or links (size or opacity zero)	We check whether the page contains text or links set to zero font size or full transparency, so people cannot see them.	SP-HID-ZERO	1	spam	P
Long list of city or region names	We check whether the page has a block listing many towns or regions with no information about each place.	SP-KWS-GEO	1	spam	P
List of phone numbers without context	We check whether the page has a list of phone numbers that does not say whose each number is or what it is for.	SP-KWS-PHONE	1	spam	P
Same keyword repeated too often	We check whether the text repeats the same word or phrase so often that it sounds unnatural to a reader.	SP-KWS-REPEAT	1	spam	P
Outgoing links with commercial keyword text	We check whether the article has several links to other sites whose clickable text is a generic sales phrase, such as "best ring" or "buy flowers", instead of a name or description.	SP-LNK-ANCHOR	1	spam	P
Directory of unrelated sites with keyword links	We check whether the page is a directory or bookmark list that links to many unrelated sites using keyword text and little description.	SP-LNK-DIR	1	spam	P
Keyword links in the footer to unrelated sites	We check whether the footer or site template links to other, unrelated sites with keyword anchors such as "cheap car insurance" or "online casino". Links to your own pages do not count.	SP-LNK-FOOTER	2	spam	P
Gifted product with unlabelled links	We check whether the page says the product or service was received for free, while links to that brand or shop are not marked as sponsored.	SP-LNK-GIFT	2	spam	P
Sponsored article with unlabelled links	We check whether the page says it is paid content, such as "sponsored post" or "in cooperation with", while links to the sponsor are not marked as sponsored.	SP-LNK-PAID	3	spam	P
Offers to sell links	We check whether the page offers to sell links or articles with links meant to help rankings, such as "dofollow links for sale" or a guest post price list.	SP-LNK-SELL	1	spam	P
Keyword links in forum posts or signatures	We check whether forum posts or comments contain links with keyword text in the message or in the user's signature.	SP-LNK-SIG	1	spam	P
Text ads with unlabelled links	We check whether the page has text ads or a block of paid links, such as "sponsored links" or "recommended sites", whose links are not marked as sponsored.	SP-LNK-TEXTAD	2	spam	P
Required backlink in terms or embed code	We check whether the terms, licence, badge or embed instructions require others to link back to this site without allowing them to mark the link as nofollow or sponsored.	SP-LNK-TOS	1	spam	P
Hidden sponsored article promoting one business	We check whether an article on an unrelated site promotes one business, links to it with a sales phrase, does not mark the link as sponsored and has no sponsored label.	SP-LNK-UNLABELED	4	spam	P
Short generic text made only to carry links	We check whether the page is a short generic text whose only specific element is one or more links to commercial sites.	SP-LNK-VEHICLE	1	spam	P+
Hidden or keyword links in a widget	We check whether a widget, counter, badge or embed code on the page contains hidden links or links with keyword text instead of the provider's name.	SP-LNK-WIDGET	1	spam	P
Link exchange with unrelated sites	We check whether the page has a "partners" list of unrelated sites or an invitation to swap links, such as "link to us and we will link back".	SP-LNK-XCH	1	spam	P
Script that blocks the browser's Back button	We check whether the page's scripts change the browser history and catch the Back button, a technique used to trap visitors on the site.	SP-MAL-BACK	1	spam	P+
Pushes you to download a program to see content	We check whether the page pushes visitors to download a program or app, such as "update your player" or "install codec", to access the content.	SP-MAL-DOWNLOAD	2	spam	P+
Asks to install an extension that changes the browser	We check whether the page asks visitors to install a browser extension, toolbar or app that changes the home page, default search engine or new tab page.	SP-MAL-UNWANTED	1	spam	P+
Fake generator of free credits or codes	We check whether the page offers a generator of free credit, game currency, gift cards, followers or activation codes.	SP-MIS-GEN	1	spam	P
Promised online tool that does not exist	We check whether the page claims to offer an online tool, such as a converter or downloader, while the tool is missing and the buttons lead to ads or other sites.	SP-MIS-TOOL	2	spam	P
Unedited machine translation	We check whether the text shows signs of automatic translation without editing: literal idioms, wrong word meanings, untranslated bits or mixed languages.	SP-SCA-MT	1	spam	P
Nonsense text full of search keywords	We check whether the text is made of sentences that make little or no sense, while still containing search keywords.	SP-SCA-NONSENSE	1	spam	P
Page built from copied search results	We check whether the main content is a list of search-result-style entries (titles, addresses and snippets from other sites) with nothing of its own.	SP-SCA-SERP	1	spam	P
Text stitched together from different sources	We check whether the main text is pieced together from other sources: sudden changes in style or formatting, repeated or contradictory parts and no linking commentary.	SP-SCA-STITCH	2	spam	P+
Template text with only a name swapped	We check whether the main text is generic and only a name (place, product, person or keyword) is filled in, so the same text would fit any other name.	SP-SCA-TEMPLATE	1	spam	P+
Sells reviews, ratings or followers	We check whether the page offers, recommends or links to a service that sells reviews, ratings, followers, likes or engagement.	SP-SCAM-FAKE-REVIEWS	2	spam	P
Pretends to be a known brand or official service	We check whether the page presents itself as a well-known business, brand or official service, while its address or contact details do not belong to it.	SP-SCAM-IMPERSONATE	1	spam	P+
Fake customer support for a known company	We check whether the page offers customer support or a helpline for a well-known company, such as Microsoft or Amazon, without being that company.	SP-SCAM-SUPPORT	1	spam	P
Page made of other sites' videos or images	We check whether the page is mostly videos, images or other media from other sites with little or no own text or commentary.	SP-SCR-EMBED	1	spam	P
Copied news feed from another site	We check whether the main content just reproduces another site's feed (headlines, excerpts and links) without own commentary or selection.	SP-SCR-FEED	1	spam	P
Credits a source but does not link to it	We check whether the text names an online source, such as "Source: Wikipedia", but there is no link to that source on the page.	SP-SCR-HIDDEN-SOURCE	2	spam	P+
Full article republished from another outlet	We check whether the page reproduces a whole article from another publication, for example with its byline or "The post appeared first on ...", without adding anything.	SP-SCR-REPUB	1	spam	P+
Text with words swapped for odd synonyms	We check whether the text looks like a copy with words replaced by odd synonyms, such as "search motor enhancement" instead of "search engine optimisation".	SP-SCR-SPIN	1	spam	P
Off-topic paid content hosted on the site	We check whether the page is commercial content on a typical third-party topic (casino, payday loans, CBD, coupons, essay writing) that does not match the site's own subject.	SP-SRP-TOPIC	1	spam	P+
Commercial article with no author or disclosure	We check whether the page is an affiliate or commercial article with no named author or editor and no note that it is commercial.	SP-SRP-UNAUTH	1	spam	P+
User profile used for spam	We check whether the page is a user account or profile whose content is advertising, keyword lists or links unrelated to the platform.	SP-UGC-ACCOUNT	1	spam	P
Spam in comments	We check whether the comments advertise unrelated products or drop links, for example "Great article! Visit ...".	SP-UGC-COMMENT	1	spam	P
Uploaded file with a spam title or description	We check whether a file-hosting page has a spam title or description, such as stuffed keywords, "free download crack", pharmacy, casino or adult content.	SP-UGC-FILE	1	spam	P
Spam posts in a forum thread	We check whether the forum thread has posts that promote unrelated products or links instead of joining the discussion.	SP-UGC-FORUM	1	spam	P

Why it matters and how to fix it

Affiliate page with copied product content SP-AFF

Why it matters: Google's spam policies name thin affiliate pages as spam. Such pages can lose rankings, and visitors have no reason to buy through you rather than the shop.

How to fix: Add value beyond the seller's text: your own tests, photos, comparisons, prices over time or advice on who the product suits. Disclose affiliate links.

Same service page copied for many cities SP-DOOR-CITY

Why it matters: Google calls these doorway pages: many near-identical pages made to rank for local searches. They are spam and can hurt the whole site.

How to fix: Create a city page only where you really serve that place and add local facts: address, team, prices, projects or reviews from that area. Merge the rest into one page.

In-between page that only sends you elsewhere SP-DOOR-FUNNEL

Why it matters: Google's spam policies treat such in-between pages as doorways. They add an extra step for users and can be removed from search results.

How to fix: Give the page real content that helps on its own, or remove it and link directly to the destination page.

Old domain reused for unrelated paid content SP-EXP

Why it matters: Google calls this expired domain abuse: buying an old domain to use its reputation for unrelated content. It is spam and such sites can be removed from results.

How to fix: Use a domain that fits your content. If you bought an old domain, keep its topic or start fresh and remove leftover branding of the former owner.

Hidden script code typical of hacks SP-HACK-CODE

Why it matters: Google's spam policies cover hacked content, and Google may warn users or hide the site. Hidden code can steal data or send visitors to spam pages.

How to fix: Find where the script comes from, remove it, update the site software and plugins, change passwords and check Google Search Console for security issues.

Spam page added to the site by a hacker SP-HACK-PAGE

Why it matters: Google treats pages added by hackers as spam and may warn users or remove the site from results. It damages your brand and visitors' safety.

How to fix: Delete the spam pages, close the security gap, update software, change passwords and ask Google to review the site in Search Console.

Spam text inserted into a normal page SP-HACK-TEXT

Why it matters: Inserted spam usually means the site was hacked. Google may warn users or lower the site, and visitors lose trust.

How to fix: Remove the inserted text, find and fix the security gap, update software and plugins, and change all passwords.

Links hidden behind a single tiny character SP-HID-CHAR

Why it matters: Google's spam policies name links hidden in tiny characters as hidden link abuse. Such links can lower trust in the whole site.

How to fix: Remove the hidden links. If a link is needed, give it clear, visible text that tells readers where it goes.

Hidden block of keywords or links SP-HID-NONE

Why it matters: Text shown to Google but hidden from people breaks Google's spam policies on hidden text. It can lead to lower rankings or removal.

How to fix: Delete hidden keyword or link blocks. Hide only things that users can open, such as menus, tabs or accordions.

Text or links moved off the screen SP-HID-OFFSCREEN

Why it matters: Google's spam policies name off-screen text as a way of hiding text from users. It can lead to lower rankings or removal.

How to fix: Remove off-screen text and links. Text for screen readers is fine when it describes something visible on the page.

Invisible text or links (size or opacity zero) SP-HID-ZERO

Why it matters: Google's spam policies name zero-size text as hidden text abuse. It can lower the page in results or remove it.

How to fix: Remove invisible text and links, or make them visible if they are useful for readers.

Long list of city or region names SP-KWS-GEO

Why it matters: Google names lists of places a page tries to rank for as keyword stuffing, which is spam. It can lower rankings and looks unprofessional to customers.

How to fix: Replace the list with a short sentence about your service area or a map. Create a separate page only for places where you have real local information.

List of phone numbers without context SP-KWS-PHONE

Why it matters: Google names lists of phone numbers with no added value as keyword stuffing. Such pages are often spam and can be lowered in results.

How to fix: Remove bare number lists. Show only your own contact numbers, each with a clear label such as "Sales" or "Support".

Same keyword repeated too often SP-KWS-REPEAT

Why it matters: Google's spam policies name repeated keywords as keyword stuffing. It can lower rankings and makes the text hard to read.

How to fix: Read the text aloud and cut repetitions. Use the phrase where it is natural, use synonyms and focus on answering the reader's question.

Outgoing links with commercial keyword text SP-LNK-ANCHOR

Why it matters: Google names links with keyword-rich text placed in articles as a typical link scheme. Taking part in link schemes can hurt both the linking and the linked site.

How to fix: Use names or descriptive link text, and mark paid or partner links with rel="sponsored" (a tag that tells Google the link is paid).

Directory of unrelated sites with keyword links SP-LNK-DIR

Why it matters: Google names low-quality directory and bookmark links as link spam. Such pages pass no value to readers and can lower trust in the site.

How to fix: Keep only sites you really recommend, describe each one in your own words and use their names as link text.

Keyword links in the footer to unrelated sites SP-LNK-FOOTER

Why it matters: Google names keyword-rich links hidden in footers and templates as link spam. They appear on every page and can harm the whole site.

How to fix: Remove the links from the footer or template. If they are paid, mark them with rel="sponsored"; check whether they were added by a theme or a hacker.

Gifted product with unlabelled links SP-LNK-GIFT

Why it matters: Google treats links given in exchange for free products as paid links. Without a label they break Google's link spam policy.

How to fix: Add rel="sponsored" (or rel="nofollow") to links to the brand that gave you the product, and keep the disclosure visible for readers.

Sponsored article with unlabelled links SP-LNK-PAID

Why it matters: Google's spam policies say paid links must be labelled for search engines. Unlabelled paid links can hurt both your site and the sponsor's.

How to fix: Add rel="sponsored" to every link to the sponsor in paid content. Keep the visible "sponsored" label for readers.

Offers to sell links SP-LNK-SELL

Why it matters: Google's spam policies name buying and selling links that pass ranking value as link spam. Sites selling such links can lose their own visibility.

How to fix: Stop selling links that pass ranking value. If you sell advertising, label it and mark links with rel="sponsored".

Keyword links in forum posts or signatures SP-LNK-SIG

Why it matters: Google names optimised links in forum posts and signatures as link spam. Left unchecked, they can make the forum look like a spam source.

How to fix: Mark links in user posts and signatures with rel="ugc" or rel="nofollow", and moderate or remove promotional signatures.

Text ads with unlabelled links SP-LNK-TEXTAD

Why it matters: Google names text ads that pass ranking value as link spam. Unlabelled ad links can hurt the site that shows them.

How to fix: Add rel="sponsored" to every link in ad blocks, or use an ad system that does this automatically.

Required backlink in terms or embed code SP-LNK-TOS

Why it matters: Google names forced links in terms of service as a link scheme. It can reduce the value Google gives to your links or lead to action against the site.

How to fix: Remove the forced-link requirement, or allow and recommend rel="nofollow" or rel="sponsored" on the link back.

Hidden sponsored article promoting one business SP-LNK-UNLABELED

Why it matters: This pattern is a typical paid link without disclosure, which Google's spam policies forbid. Both the publisher and the promoted business can be affected.

How to fix: If the article is paid, label it as sponsored for readers and add rel="sponsored" to the link. If it is not paid, use the business name as link text.

Short generic text made only to carry links SP-LNK-VEHICLE

Why it matters: Google names articles written mainly to place links as link spam. Such pages bring no value to readers and can lower the site's trust.

How to fix: Publish only articles that help readers on their own. Mark any paid or partner links with rel="sponsored".

Hidden or keyword links in a widget SP-LNK-WIDGET

Why it matters: Google names keyword or hidden links in widgets as link spam. They spread to every site using the widget and can harm all of them.

How to fix: Remove such widgets or change their code so the only link is the provider's name, preferably marked with rel="nofollow".

Link exchange with unrelated sites SP-LNK-XCH

Why it matters: Google names excessive link exchanges as a link scheme. They can reduce the value of your links or lead to action against the site.

How to fix: Remove link exchange offers and lists of unrelated sites. Link only to partners you really work with, using their names.

Script that blocks the browser's Back button SP-MAL-BACK

Why it matters: Google's spam policies name back-button hijacking as a malicious practice. It frustrates users and can lead to lower visibility.

How to fix: Remove scripts that intercept the Back button, including those from ad or analytics partners. Change history only for real in-page navigation.

Pushes you to download a program to see content SP-MAL-DOWNLOAD

Why it matters: Google's spam policies treat forced or misleading downloads as malicious practices. Browsers and Google may warn users and the site loses trust.

How to fix: Remove download prompts that block content. Offer downloads only when clearly requested, with a description of what the file is.

Asks to install an extension that changes the browser SP-MAL-UNWANTED

Why it matters: Google names such software as unwanted software under its malicious practices policy. Users may see warnings and avoid the site.

How to fix: Stop promoting such software. If you offer an extension, describe clearly what it changes and let users opt out easily.

Fake generator of free credits or codes SP-MIS-GEN

Why it matters: Google's spam policies name fake generators as misleading functionality. Such pages trick users into ads or surveys and can be removed from results.

How to fix: Remove the generator page. If you offer promotions, describe the real offer and its conditions honestly.

Promised online tool that does not exist SP-MIS-TOOL

Why it matters: Google's spam policies name fake tools as misleading functionality. Visitors feel cheated and Google can remove the page from results.

How to fix: Provide the working tool on the page, or change the page so it does not promise a tool it does not have.

Unedited machine translation SP-SCA-MT

Why it matters: Google lists unedited machine-translated content as scaled content abuse when it is published without care. Readers find it hard to trust or understand.

How to fix: Have a fluent speaker review and correct translations before publishing, especially titles, idioms and technical terms.

Nonsense text full of search keywords SP-SCA-NONSENSE

Why it matters: Google's spam policies name nonsense text with keywords as scaled content abuse. Such pages can drop out of results and harm the whole site.

How to fix: Remove the pages or replace the text with clear content written for readers. Check how they were produced and stop that process.

Page built from copied search results SP-SCA-SERP

Why it matters: Google names pages that scrape search results as scaled content abuse. They add no value over Google itself and are likely to be removed.

How to fix: Replace the list with your own content, or block such pages from search (noindex) if they are internal search pages.

Text stitched together from different sources SP-SCA-STITCH

Why it matters: Google's spam policies name stitched content without added value as scaled content abuse. Readers notice the patchwork and leave.

How to fix: Rewrite the text in one voice with your own structure and analysis. Quote sources briefly and link to them.

Template text with only a name swapped SP-SCA-TEMPLATE

Why it matters: Google's spam policies name mass-produced template pages as scaled content abuse. Many such pages can harm the visibility of the whole site.

How to fix: Add real, specific information to each page, or merge similar pages into one and redirect the rest.

Sells reviews, ratings or followers SP-SCAM-FAKE-REVIEWS

Why it matters: Google treats fake reviews and engagement as fraud and forbids them in its policies. Promoting them can also break consumer law.

How to fix: Remove offers and links to such services. Collect real reviews from real customers, for example by asking after a purchase.

Pretends to be a known brand or official service SP-SCAM-IMPERSONATE

Why it matters: Google's spam policies name impersonation as scam and fraud. Such sites are removed from results and may face legal action.

How to fix: Use your own name and branding. If you are a reseller or partner, say so clearly and link to the brand's official site.

Fake customer support for a known company SP-SCAM-SUPPORT

Why it matters: Google names fake support services as scam and fraud. They are removed from results and harm people who call them.

How to fix: Remove the support claims. If you offer independent help, say clearly that you are not the company and link to its official support.

Page made of other sites' videos or images SP-SCR-EMBED

Why it matters: Google's spam policies name embedded content without added value as scraping. Such pages are unlikely to rank above the original.

How to fix: Add your own commentary, context, selection criteria or summaries around the media, or link to the originals instead.

Copied news feed from another site SP-SCR-FEED

Why it matters: Google's spam policies name copied feeds without added value as scraping. Such pages can be lowered or removed from results.

How to fix: Select items with care and add your own summary or opinion for each, or block the page from search with noindex.

Credits a source but does not link to it SP-SCR-HIDDEN-SOURCE

Why it matters: A credit without a link often comes with copied content, which Google's spam policies call scraping. Readers also cannot check the original.

How to fix: Link to the source you credit and add your own content. If you copied text, replace it with your own or quote it briefly.

Full article republished from another outlet SP-SCR-REPUB

Why it matters: Google's spam policies name republishing without added value as scraping. Google will usually show the original and may lower the copy.

How to fix: Publish your own content, or use a short excerpt with a link to the original. If you have a syndication deal, ask for a canonical link to the original.

Text with words swapped for odd synonyms SP-SCR-SPIN

Why it matters: Google's spam policies name automatically reworded copies as scraping. Such text is hard to read and harms the brand.

How to fix: Remove the reworded copies and write your own text. Do not use tools that swap words automatically.

Off-topic paid content hosted on the site SP-SRP-TOPIC

Why it matters: Google calls this site reputation abuse: using a trusted site's name to rank third-party content. It can lead to such pages being removed.

How to fix: Remove third-party content that does not fit your site, or block it from search with noindex. Publish partner content only when you oversee it.

Commercial article with no author or disclosure SP-SRP-UNAUTH

Why it matters: Anonymous commercial content on a host site is a typical sign of site reputation abuse. Readers cannot tell who is behind it.

How to fix: Name the author or editor, label commercial content clearly and mark paid links with rel="sponsored".

User profile used for spam SP-UGC-ACCOUNT

Why it matters: Google's spam policies name spam accounts as user-generated spam. Many such profiles can make Google trust the whole platform less.

How to fix: Remove spam profiles, verify new accounts, and mark profile links with rel="ugc" or rel="nofollow" or noindex new profiles.

Spam in comments SP-UGC-COMMENT

Why it matters: Google's spam policies name spam comments as user-generated spam. Left unchecked, they make the site look abandoned and less trustworthy.

How to fix: Delete spam comments, turn on comment moderation or an anti-spam filter, and mark comment links with rel="ugc" or rel="nofollow".

Uploaded file with a spam title or description SP-UGC-FILE

Why it matters: Google's spam policies name spam file uploads as user-generated spam. They can lower trust in the whole hosting service.

How to fix: Remove spam uploads, filter file titles and descriptions, and consider noindex for new uploads until they are checked.

Spam posts in a forum thread SP-UGC-FORUM

Why it matters: Google's spam policies name forum spam as user-generated spam. Too much of it can make Google trust the whole forum less.

How to fix: Remove spam posts, moderate new members' posts and mark user links with rel="ugc" or rel="nofollow".

Quality (SQRG Lowest/Low)

Rule	What we check	ID	Ver	Category	Detect.
Ads that look like the page's content or results	We check whether ads or paid links are shown as if they were the page's own content or search results, for example a list where every item is an ad.	QR-ADS-AS-MC	1	quality	P
Ads that look like the site menu	We check whether ads or paid links are presented as the site's menu or as a list of useful resources.	QR-ADS-AS-NAV	1	quality	P
Leftover AI assistant phrases in the text	We check whether the text contains phrases typical of an AI chat assistant, such as "As an AI language model", "Certainly! Here is" or "I hope this helps".	QR-AIPHRASE	1	quality	P
Only general facts everyone already knows	We check whether the main text contains only common knowledge and generic statements, with no names, numbers, dates, examples or experience.	QR-COMMON	3	quality	P
Asks for sensitive data it does not need	We check whether the page asks for sensitive data, such as an ID number, bank account, card PIN or full date of birth with address, that its purpose does not need.	QR-DATA-HARVEST	1	quality	P
Page pretends to be something it is not	We check whether the page presents itself as one thing (a guide, an independent review, news, a charity, a tool) while it really exists to get clicks on paid links or to collect data.	QR-DECEPTIVE-PURPOSE	1	quality	P+
Page shows a hacker's message	We check whether the page displays a message left by an attacker, such as "Hacked by ..." or slogans that replaced the site's content.	QR-DEFACED	1	quality	P
How much first-hand experience the content shows	We rate, on a scale from lowest to very high, how much the author shows real first-hand experience, such as own use, own photos or specific details.	QR-EEAT-EXPERIENCE	1	quality	P+
How much expertise the content shows	We rate, on a scale from lowest to very high, how much knowledge and skill on the topic the content shows, such as accuracy, credentials or expert sources.	QR-EEAT-EXPERTISE	1	quality	P+
How trustworthy the page is	We rate, on a scale from lowest to very high, how accurate, honest, safe and reliable the page is, including clear information about who is responsible.	QR-EEAT-TRUST	1	quality	P+
Fake alerts or prize messages	We check whether the page shows fake notifications, such as "You have won", "You have been selected", friend requests or virus warnings.	QR-FAKE-ALERT	1	quality	P
Buttons that lead somewhere else	We check whether a button or link says one thing, such as "Close", "Play" or "Continue", but really leads to an ad, an app or a download.	QR-FAKE-BUTTON	2	quality	P+
Sensational "news" with no author, date or source	We check whether the page looks like a news report about a shocking event (a celebrity death, disaster, scandal) but has no author, no date and no sources.	QR-FAKE-NEWS	1	quality	P
"Independent review" that only sells one product	We check whether the page calls itself an independent or honest review, but only praises one product and every button sends you to buy it.	QR-FAKE-REVIEW	1	quality	P+
Claims of testing with no test details	We check whether the page says "we tested" or "after a month of use" but gives no real details: conditions, measurements, own photos or problems found.	QR-FALSE-TESTING	1	quality	P+
Answer buried under unrelated filler text	We check whether the useful part (the answer, recipe or instructions) comes only after a long block of unrelated text, such as life stories or generic introductions.	QR-FILLER	1	quality	P
Text that makes no sense	We check whether the main text is made of words or sentences a reader cannot understand, so the purpose of the page is unclear.	QR-GIBBERISH	1	quality	P
Encourages dangerous behaviour	We check whether the page encourages dangerous actions or plays down their risks, for example drinking cleaning products or mixing medicines with drugs.	QR-HARM-DANGER	1	quality	P
Publishes someone's private personal data	We check whether the page shows private information about a person, such as a home address, private phone or ID number, in a way that exposes them to harassment.	QR-HARM-DOXX	1	quality	P
Promotes suicide, self-harm or eating disorders	We check whether the page promotes or explains suicide, self-harm or eating disorders.	QR-HARM-SELF	1	quality	P
Incites or teaches violence	We check whether the page calls for violence, makes serious threats or gives easy instructions for violent acts.	QR-HARM-VIOLENCE	1	quality	P
Hate against a group of people	We check whether the page promotes hatred, violence or degrading stereotypes against people because of their race, religion, nationality, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age or similar traits.	QR-HATE	1	quality	P
Named author with background information	We check whether the page names a real author and tells something about them, such as a short bio or a link to an author page. A yes here is a good sign.	QR-HC-AUTHOR-INFO	1	helpful	P
Author profile that looks made up	We check whether the author profile shows signs of being invented, for example one "expert" who is a doctor, lawyer and mechanic at once, or praise with no checkable details.	QR-HC-FAKE-AUTHOR	2	helpful	P+
Shows first-hand experience	We check whether the text includes details only someone who used the product, visited the place or did the task would know: own measurements, results, photos or problems. A yes here is a good sign.	QR-HC-FIRSTHAND	1	helpful	P
Does the page miss what searchers want?	We check whether the page serves a different goal, or a clearly wrong form, than the dominant intent of the query's top results.	QR-HC-INTENT-MISMATCH	1	helpful	P+
Title promises an answer the text does not have	We check whether the title promises a specific answer, such as a release date, price or winner, while the text admits it is unknown or only guesses.	QR-HC-NO-ANSWER	1	helpful	P
Same points repeated to make the text longer	We check whether the text repeats the same few points many times in different words, without adding anything new.	QR-HC-PADDING	3	helpful	P
Many spelling errors or broken formatting	We check whether the text has many spelling or grammar mistakes, broken sentences or formatting debris, such as doubled words or leftover code.	QR-HC-SLOPPY	1	helpful	P
Facts backed by links to sources	We check whether the text links its facts to specific external sources, or lists references with titles. A yes here is a good sign.	QR-HC-SOURCED	1	helpful	P
Sentences that do not fit together	We check whether each sentence makes sense on its own but they do not connect: jumps of topic, contradictions or no line of thought.	QR-INCOHERENT	1	quality	P
Key part of the content is missing	We check whether the page leaves out something essential for its purpose, such as a recipe without a key step or a "tallest mountains" list without Everest.	QR-INCOMPLETE	1	quality	P
Content blocked until you install or click something	We check whether the visitor must download an app, install something or click an offer before they can see the main content.	QR-INTERSTITIAL	1	quality	P+
Quality of the main content	We rate, on a scale from lowest to highest, how well the main content helps the page achieve its purpose, judging effort, originality, skill and accuracy.	QR-MCQ	1	quality	P+
Harmful claims against expert agreement	We check whether the page makes harmful claims that go against what experts widely agree on, such as "lemons cure cancer".	QR-MISINFO-CONSENSUS	1	quality	P
Conspiracy theories presented as fact	We check whether the page presents unproven conspiracy theories as if they were true.	QR-MISINFO-CONSPIRACY	1	quality	P
Clearly false and harmful claims	We check whether the page states harmful things that are clearly false and easy to disprove, such as a wrong election date.	QR-MISINFO-FALSE	1	quality	P
How well does the page meet the query's need?	We rate the page as a result for your target query, from "fails to meet" to "fully meets", against what the top results show searchers want.	QR-NM	1	quality	P+
No real content, only ads or links	We check whether the page has no main content of its own and shows only ads, links, menus or standard text.	QR-NOMC	1	quality	P
Several obvious factual errors	We check whether the page contains several clear factual mistakes or bizarre statements that no knowledgeable author would write.	QR-ODDFACTS	1	quality	P
Big claims about expertise with no proof	We check whether the page makes big claims about the author or company, such as "world's leading expert" or "trusted by millions", with nothing concrete to back them.	QR-OVERCLAIM	1	quality	P+
List of questions with short generic answers	We check whether the page is a series of question headings, like the "People also ask" box in Google, each followed by a short generic answer.	QR-PAA	1	quality	P
Asks for login to another service	We check whether the page asks for the login or password of a popular service, such as Facebook, Gmail, Microsoft or a bank, while its address does not belong to that service.	QR-PHISH-LOGIN	1	quality	P
Overall page quality rating	We rate the page as a whole on the 9-step scale used by Google's quality raters, from lowest to highest.	QR-PQ	1	quality	P+
"Best products" list without own testing	We check whether the page is a "best X" list built from manufacturer data or other people's reviews, with no sign that the author tested anything.	QR-ROUNDUP	1	quality	P
Product sold as a cure for a serious disease	We check whether the page sells or promotes a product as a cure for a serious disease, such as cancer, diabetes or HIV.	QR-SCAM-CURE	1	quality	P
Promises of guaranteed or easy money	We check whether the page promises guaranteed profits, easy debt removal or effortless income, such as "guaranteed 30% a month".	QR-SCAM-MONEY	1	quality	P
Only a summary of someone else's page	We check whether the main text only summarises one other page, such as a forum thread, news article or video, without adding anything new.	QR-SUMMARY	2	quality	P+
Too little content for what the title promises	We check whether the main text is so short that it does not deliver what the title or heading promises, for example a heading with one or two generic sentences.	QR-THINMC	1	quality	P
Exaggerated or shocking title	We check whether the page title is exaggerated, shocking or sensational compared with what the content really delivers.	QR-TITLE-CLICKBAIT	1	quality	P
Title promises something the page does not have	We check whether the page title or main heading promises something that the content does not contain at all.	QR-TITLE-MISMATCH	1	quality	P
Empty or wrong values from a template	We check whether parts of the text generated from a template are left empty or filled with obviously wrong values, such as "The reason for code P2570 is .".	QR-TPL	2	quality	P
Takes payment but does not say who you are	We check whether the page takes payments or asks for passwords or sensitive data, and gives no information about the owner, contact or customer service.	QR-TRANS-NO-OWNER	1	quality	P
Shop with only minimal contact details	We check whether a page that takes payments or orders gives only minimal customer service information, such as just a form or an e-mail, with no company details or returns policy.	QR-TRANS-THIN-CONTACT	1	quality	P
Text cut off mid-sentence	We check whether the main text ends suddenly in the middle of a sentence or list item.	QR-TRUNC	1	quality	P
Content copied from Wikipedia	We check whether the text repeats an encyclopedia entry with nothing of its own and shows traces of copying from Wikipedia, such as its credit line or footnote formatting.	QR-WIKI	4	quality	P+
Vague advice on health, money or safety	We check whether a page on topics that affect health, money or safety gives vague, contradictory or non-committal advice that no expert would write.	QR-YMYL-INEXPERT	2	quality	P
Expert advice with no sign of expertise	We check whether a page on topics that affect health, money or safety gives advice that needs expertise, but shows no qualified author, no sources and only shallow advice.	QR-YMYL-NO-EXPERTISE	2	quality	P
Health or money advice with nobody responsible	We check whether a page on topics that affect health, money or safety names nobody responsible: no owner, organisation, editor, author or contact.	QR-YMYL-NO-OWNER	2	quality	P
Health or money advice with minimal owner info	We check whether a page on topics that affect health, money or safety gives only minimal information about who is responsible, such as just a first name or nickname.	QR-YMYL-THIN-OWNER	1	quality	P

Why it matters and how to fix it

Ads that look like the page's content or results QR-ADS-AS-MC

Why it matters: Google treats ads posing as content as deceptive design and rates such pages lowest. It also breaks visitors' trust in everything else on the site.

How to fix: Separate ads visually from your content, label them "Advertisement" or "Sponsored" and never format an ad like an answer or a search result.

Ads that look like the site menu QR-ADS-AS-NAV

Why it matters: Visitors use menus to move around the site; ads hidden there trick them into leaving. Google calls this deceptive page design and rates it lowest.

How to fix: Keep menus and resource lists for your own pages and genuine resources only. Put ads in clearly labelled ad spaces.

Leftover AI assistant phrases in the text QR-AIPHRASE

Why it matters: These phrases prove the text was pasted without editing. Google's quality raters treat such copied or generated content as lowest quality, and readers notice it immediately.

How to fix: Search your pages for assistant phrases and remove them. Edit generated drafts so they read like your own text and add your own facts or experience.

Only general facts everyone already knows QR-COMMON

Why it matters: Google rewards content that adds something new. A page that repeats what every other page says gives Google no reason to show it, and gives customers no reason to choose you.

How to fix: Add what only you can offer: real numbers, examples from your work, photos, test results or a clear opinion based on experience.

Asks for sensitive data it does not need QR-DATA-HARVEST

Why it matters: Collecting data a page does not need is a typical sign of fraud. Google's quality raters give such pages the lowest rating, and it can also break data-protection law.

How to fix: Ask only for the data you truly need for the service. Explain why each field is required and link to your privacy policy next to the form.

Page pretends to be something it is not QR-DECEPTIVE-PURPOSE

Why it matters: Google's quality raters give the lowest rating to pages with a deceptive purpose. Once visitors notice the trick, the brand loses trust for good.

How to fix: Say openly what the page is for. If you earn from links or ads, state it clearly near the top, and make sure the content truly delivers what the page promises.

Page shows a hacker's message QR-DEFACED

Why it matters: A defaced page means the site was broken into. Google may warn users or drop the page from results, and visitors will see the site as unsafe.

How to fix: Restore the site from a clean backup, change all passwords, update the software and plugins, and check Google Search Console for security issues.

How much first-hand experience the content shows QR-EEAT-EXPERIENCE

Why it matters: Experience is one of the four signals Google's quality raters look at (experience, expertise, authority and trust). Reviews and advice based on real use are more helpful and more trusted.

How to fix: Show what you did yourself: your own photos, measurements, dates, results and honest notes about problems.

How much expertise the content shows QR-EEAT-EXPERTISE

Why it matters: Expertise is one of the four signals Google's quality raters look at (experience, expertise, authority and trust). It matters most on topics that affect health, money or safety.

How to fix: Have content written or reviewed by people who know the topic, show their qualifications and support key claims with reliable sources.

How trustworthy the page is QR-EEAT-TRUST

Why it matters: Google calls trust the most important of its four quality signals (experience, expertise, authority and trust). An untrustworthy page rates low however expert it looks, and customers will not buy from it.

How to fix: Show who runs the site and how to contact you, keep facts accurate and sourced, and for shops add clear payment, returns and customer service information.

Fake alerts or prize messages QR-FAKE-ALERT

Why it matters: Fake alerts are a classic trick to make people click. Google treats this as deceptive design and rates such pages lowest; browsers may also warn users.

How to fix: Remove all fake notices and pop-ups. Check that ads or scripts from partners do not show them, and drop ad networks that do.

Buttons that lead somewhere else QR-FAKE-BUTTON

Why it matters: Misleading buttons trick visitors into clicks they did not want. Google rates this deceptive design lowest, and annoyed visitors leave the site.

How to fix: Make every button do exactly what its label says. Remove ads that imitate "Download", "Play" or "Close" buttons.

Sensational "news" with no author, date or source QR-FAKE-NEWS

Why it matters: Google's quality raters treat news without clear authorship as deceptive and rate it lowest. Sensational stories without sources also damage the publisher's credibility.

How to fix: Add the author's name, the publication date and links to sources for every news story. If the facts are unconfirmed, say so in the headline and text.

"Independent review" that only sells one product QR-FAKE-REVIEW

Why it matters: A sales page posing as a review misleads readers. Google rates it lowest and its review systems favour reviews with real pros, cons and comparisons.

How to fix: Either label the page as an advertisement or write a real review: describe your own use, show pros and cons, compare with alternatives and disclose affiliate links.

Claims of testing with no test details QR-FALSE-TESTING

Why it matters: Google asks reviews to show evidence of first-hand testing. Claiming tests you cannot show is misleading and can make the page rate lowest.

How to fix: Show how you tested: when, in what conditions, what you measured, your own photos and what went wrong. If you did not test, do not say you did.

Answer buried under unrelated filler text QR-FILLER

Why it matters: Google's quality guidelines rate pages padded with filler as low quality. Visitors who cannot find the answer quickly go back to search and choose a competitor.

How to fix: Put the answer or the main steps near the top. Shorten or remove introductions that do not help, or move background stories below the main content.

Text that makes no sense QR-GIBBERISH

Why it matters: Google gives meaningless text its lowest quality rating, and its spam systems often treat it as automated spam. Visitors leave at once.

How to fix: Replace the text with clear content written for people. If the page was generated automatically or hacked, remove it and check how it got there.

Encourages dangerous behaviour QR-HARM-DANGER

Why it matters: Google gives the lowest rating to content that can hurt people. Such pages can also bring legal risk and serious damage to the brand.

How to fix: Remove the harmful advice. If you write about risky topics, explain the dangers clearly and point readers to official health or safety sources.

Publishes someone's private personal data QR-HARM-DOXX

Why it matters: Google rates pages that expose private data as harmful and gives them the lowest rating; Google can also remove such data from results on request. It may break privacy law.

How to fix: Remove the private data from the page. Publish personal details only with the person's consent and only when they are needed.

Promotes suicide, self-harm or eating disorders QR-HARM-SELF

Why it matters: Google gives the lowest rating to content that can lead people to harm themselves. It is a serious risk to readers and to the site's reputation.

How to fix: Remove the content at once. If the topic is covered, focus on prevention and show crisis helpline numbers and links to professional help.

Incites or teaches violence QR-HARM-VIOLENCE

Why it matters: Google gives the lowest rating to content that can lead to violence. Such content brings legal risk and can get the site removed by hosting or ad partners.

How to fix: Remove the content. Moderate user posts and comments so that threats and calls for violence are deleted quickly.

Hate against a group of people QR-HATE

Why it matters: Google gives hateful content the lowest rating. It can also break the law, lose ad income and damage the brand.

How to fix: Remove the hateful content and set clear moderation rules for user posts and comments.

Named author with background information QR-HC-AUTHOR-INFO

Why it matters: Google suggests showing who wrote the content so readers can judge if they can trust it. Clear authorship builds trust with readers and with Google.

How to fix: Add the author's name to each article, with a short note about their experience and a link to an author page.

Author profile that looks made up QR-HC-FAKE-AUTHOR

Why it matters: Google warns against fake authors and invented credentials. If readers find out, the whole site loses credibility.

How to fix: Show only real authors. List facts that can be checked, such as their employer, education, licence number or publications, and match topics to their real expertise.

Shows first-hand experience QR-HC-FIRSTHAND

Why it matters: Google values first-hand experience as part of trustworthy content. It is also what makes customers believe your recommendations.

How to fix: Add your own photos, measurements, dates and honest notes about what worked and what did not.

Does the page miss what searchers want? QR-HC-INTENT-MISMATCH

Why it matters: Google asks whether people leave your page satisfied. A long article where searchers want a calculator, or a sales page where they want a how-to, leaves most of them unsatisfied.

How to fix: Match the page to the dominant intent and its form, or target a query whose searchers want what the page offers.

Title promises an answer the text does not have QR-HC-NO-ANSWER

Why it matters: Google names this as search-engine-first content: writing about a hot topic without having an answer. Readers feel cheated and Google's systems learn the page does not satisfy them.

How to fix: Write the title so it matches what you know, for example "What we know so far". Update the page once the answer is confirmed.

Same points repeated to make the text longer QR-HC-PADDING

Why it matters: Google says there is no ideal word count and warns against padding text for search engines. Readers get bored and leave before reaching your offer.

How to fix: Cut repeated paragraphs and keep each point once. Use the saved space for new facts, examples or answers to follow-up questions.

Many spelling errors or broken formatting QR-HC-SLOPPY

Why it matters: Google asks whether content has spelling or style problems as a sign of care. Careless text makes the business look unprofessional.

How to fix: Proofread every page, use a spell checker and fix broken formatting before publishing.

Facts backed by links to sources QR-HC-SOURCED

Why it matters: Google asks whether content provides clear sourcing. Sources let readers check your claims, which builds trust and authority.

How to fix: Link important facts and numbers to their original sources, such as studies, official data or documentation.

Sentences that do not fit together QR-INCOHERENT

Why it matters: Disconnected text is a common sign of mass-produced content, which Google treats as scaled content abuse. Readers cannot follow it and leave.

How to fix: Rewrite the text with a clear plan: one main idea per paragraph, in a logical order, without contradictions.

Key part of the content is missing QR-INCOMPLETE

Why it matters: Google rates pages that do not fully achieve their purpose as low quality. Visitors have to look elsewhere and may not come back.

How to fix: Check the page against what a reader needs to finish the task and fill in missing steps, items or facts.

Content blocked until you install or click something QR-INTERSTITIAL

Why it matters: Google rates pages that hide content behind such barriers as lowest quality and penalises intrusive pop-ups on mobile. Many visitors simply leave.

How to fix: Show the main content right away. If you promote an app or offer, use a small banner that is easy to close.

Quality of the main content QR-MCQ

Why it matters: The quality of the main content is the most important factor in how Google's quality raters rate a page. Strong content also keeps visitors on the site and turns them into customers.

How to fix: Put clear effort into the main content: original information, your own expertise or experience, accurate facts and a complete answer to the reader's need.

Harmful claims against expert agreement QR-MISINFO-CONSENSUS

Why it matters: Google gives the lowest rating to misleading content that can cause harm, especially about health and money. It destroys trust in the site.

How to fix: Remove or correct the claims. Base health, money and safety advice on reliable sources and expert review.

Conspiracy theories presented as fact QR-MISINFO-CONSPIRACY

Why it matters: Google gives the lowest rating to pages that spread unsupported conspiracy theories. Advertisers and partners avoid such sites.

How to fix: Remove the claims or clearly present them as unproven theories, with links to reliable sources that explain the facts.

Clearly false and harmful claims QR-MISINFO-FALSE

Why it matters: Google gives clearly false, harmful information the lowest rating. Publishing it can also bring legal trouble and lose readers' trust.

How to fix: Correct the false information, check facts against official sources and add a visible note about the correction.

How well does the page meet the query's need? QR-NM

Why it matters: Google's raters judge results by how well they satisfy the searcher of a query. A good page on the wrong need, or in the wrong form, satisfies few searchers of that query.

How to fix: Serve the dominant intent first, in the form the top results use (see Search intent and the form gaps), then cover common secondary intents.

No real content, only ads or links QR-NOMC

Why it matters: A page without main content gets Google's lowest rating. It brings no value to visitors and wastes Google's attention on your site.

How to fix: Add real content that serves the page's purpose, or remove the page and redirect it to a useful one.

Several obvious factual errors QR-ODDFACTS

Why it matters: Google's quality raters treat obvious errors as a sign of low effort or automatic generation and rate such pages lowest. Readers stop trusting the whole site.

How to fix: Have someone who knows the topic check the facts, correct the errors and remove sentences that cannot be verified.

Big claims about expertise with no proof QR-OVERCLAIM

Why it matters: Google's quality raters treat exaggerated, unsupported claims about a creator as mildly misleading and rate the page lower. Customers trust concrete facts more than slogans.

How to fix: Replace slogans with facts that can be checked: years in business, number of clients, certificates, awards or named partners.

List of questions with short generic answers QR-PAA

Why it matters: This pattern is typical of mass-produced pages made to catch search traffic, which Google treats as scaled content abuse. It rarely helps the reader.

How to fix: Keep only questions your customers really ask and answer each one fully, with specific details, examples or your own experience.

Asks for login to another service QR-PHISH-LOGIN

Why it matters: This is a classic phishing pattern (stealing passwords with a fake login page). Google rates it lowest and browsers may block the site with a security warning.

How to fix: Remove the form. If you need sign-in with another service, use its official sign-in button (for example "Sign in with Google") that opens the real service.

Overall page quality rating QR-PQ

Why it matters: This is the overall rating Google's quality raters give a page, based on its purpose, possible harm and how well it achieves its goal. It summarises the other quality checks in one score.

How to fix: Start with the problems found in the other checks. Then improve the main content, show who is responsible and remove anything distracting or misleading.

"Best products" list without own testing QR-ROUNDUP

Why it matters: Google's review systems reward reviews based on real testing. A list copied from others adds little and is rated low quality.

How to fix: Test the products yourself, add your own photos and measurements, explain how you chose them and show pros and cons for each.

Product sold as a cure for a serious disease QR-SCAM-CURE

Why it matters: Google treats false cure claims as a scam and rates such pages lowest. They can also break consumer and health law.

How to fix: Remove cure claims. Describe the product honestly, follow advertising rules for health products and tell readers to talk to a doctor.

Promises of guaranteed or easy money QR-SCAM-MONEY

Why it matters: Google treats such promises as a typical sign of financial scams and rates the pages lowest. Regulators may also act against them.

How to fix: Remove guarantees and unrealistic promises. Describe real risks and costs and show who you are and any licences you hold.

Only a summary of someone else's page QR-SUMMARY

Why it matters: Google rates summaries without added value as low quality, because readers can go to the original. Such pages rarely rank above it.

How to fix: Link to the original and add your own view: context, comparison, verification, examples or practical tips.

Too little content for what the title promises QR-THINMC

Why it matters: Google rates pages with too little content for their purpose as lowest quality. Visitors go back to search and pick a fuller answer.

How to fix: Expand the page so it fully answers the title, or merge it with a related page and redirect the old address.

Exaggerated or shocking title QR-TITLE-CLICKBAIT

Why it matters: Google rates pages with exaggerated titles as low quality, and readers who feel baited leave quickly. That hurts trust and conversions.

How to fix: Write titles that describe the content honestly. Keep them interesting, but promise only what the page delivers.

Title promises something the page does not have QR-TITLE-MISMATCH

Why it matters: Google treats a misleading title as deceptive and rates the page lowest. Visitors who do not find what they came for leave right away.

How to fix: Change the title to match the content, or add the content the title promises.

Empty or wrong values from a template QR-TPL

Why it matters: Empty template fields show pages were mass-produced without checks, which Google treats as scaled content abuse. Visitors get no answer.

How to fix: Fill in the missing data or hide the sentence when there is no value. Do not publish pages that have no real data for their topic.

Takes payment but does not say who you are QR-TRANS-NO-OWNER

Why it matters: Google rates shops and payment pages with no owner information as lowest quality, because customers cannot know whom they pay. Many will not buy.

How to fix: Show the company name, address, registration details, phone or e-mail and a customer service page, and link to them from every page.

Shop with only minimal contact details QR-TRANS-THIN-CONTACT

Why it matters: Google's quality raters rate shops with too little customer information as low quality. Customers want to know how to return goods or complain before they buy.

How to fix: Add full company details, a physical address, a phone number and clear returns, delivery and complaints pages.

Text cut off mid-sentence QR-TRUNC

Why it matters: A cut-off text often comes from copying or automatic generation without checking. Google rates such pages low and readers do not get the full answer.

How to fix: Finish the text and check how the page is built, so that content limits or broken imports do not cut it again.

Content copied from Wikipedia QR-WIKI

Why it matters: Google rates copied encyclopedia text as lowest quality, because Wikipedia already shows it. Such pages almost never rank and make the site look low-effort.

How to fix: Replace the copied text with your own: local knowledge, photos, practical tips or experience. Link to Wikipedia for background instead of copying it.

Vague advice on health, money or safety QR-YMYL-INEXPERT

Why it matters: Google holds these topics to the highest standard, because bad advice can hurt people. Vague advice here gets the lowest rating and loses readers' trust.

How to fix: Have the content written or reviewed by a qualified expert. Give clear, specific advice and link to official guidance.

Expert advice with no sign of expertise QR-YMYL-NO-EXPERTISE

Why it matters: For these topics Google expects clear expertise and rates pages without it low. Readers also look for proof that the advice comes from someone qualified.

How to fix: Name the author and their qualifications, add an expert review note, link to reliable sources and make the advice specific.

Health or money advice with nobody responsible QR-YMYL-NO-OWNER

Why it matters: Google gives the lowest rating to such pages when nobody takes responsibility for them. Readers will not follow advice from an anonymous source.

How to fix: Add an "About us" page, company or organisation details, the author's name and a contact page, and link to them from the footer.

Health or money advice with minimal owner info QR-YMYL-THIN-OWNER

Why it matters: For these topics Google expects clear information about who stands behind the content and rates thin details low. Customers trust real names and organisations.

How to fix: Give the full name of the author or organisation, their qualifications and a way to contact them.

Context

Rule	What we check	ID	Ver	Category	Detect.
Topic affects health, money or safety	We check whether the main topic clearly affects people's health, money or safety, such as medicine, finance, law or elections. This is a label, not a problem.	C1-YMYL	2	quality	P
Page takes payments or personal data	We check whether the page sells something, takes orders or asks for passwords, card numbers or other sensitive data. This is a label, not a problem.	C2-TRANS	2	quality	P
Content written by users	We check whether most of the page was written by visitors (forum posts, comments, answers, profiles) rather than by the site owner. This is a label, not a problem.	C3-UGC	2	quality	P
Content written for people, not search engines	We check whether the main text is built around the reader's question or task, and not around search phrases. A yes here is a good sign.	C4-PURPOSE	5	quality	P
Service or legal page (not an article)	We check whether this is a helper page such as a privacy policy, terms, contact, login, cart or error page. This is a label, not a problem.	C5-UTILITY	1	quality	P
Does the topic affect health, money or safety?	We check how much the main topic can affect people's health, money or safety: not at all, possibly or clearly. This is a label, not a problem.	C6-YMYL-LEVEL	1	quality	P+
Main purpose of the page	We check what the page is mainly for: information, personal opinion, media, selling, discussion, a tool, navigation, or no useful purpose. This is a label, not a problem.	C7-PAGE-PURPOSE	1	quality	P+

Why it matters and how to fix it

Topic affects health, money or safety C1-YMYL

Why it matters: Google holds such topics to the highest standard, because wrong information can seriously hurt people. Other checks are read more strictly for these pages.

How to fix: No change needed for the label itself. Show a qualified author, cite reliable sources and say clearly who is responsible for the content.

Page takes payments or personal data C2-TRANS

Why it matters: Google holds pages that handle money or private data to a higher standard. Visitors need to know who they are paying or trusting, so missing company details hurt both rankings and sales.

How to fix: No change needed for the label itself. Make sure the page clearly shows who runs the shop or service, how to contact you, and your returns and complaints rules.

Content written by users C3-UGC

Why it matters: Google expects owners to keep user content free of spam. If spammers post ads or links on your forum or comments, Google may treat the whole site as less trustworthy.

How to fix: No change needed for the label itself. Moderate new posts, use anti-spam tools and mark user links with rel="ugc" or rel="nofollow" (a tag telling Google not to trust the link).

Content written for people, not search engines C4-PURPOSE

Why it matters: Google's ranking systems try to reward content made to help people. Pages written mainly to catch search traffic tend to lose visibility after Google's core updates.

How to fix: Start each page from a real reader question. Answer it early and clearly, add your own knowledge or experience, and remove paragraphs written only to fit keywords.

Service or legal page (not an article) C5-UTILITY

Why it matters: Helper pages are not meant to be rich articles, so quality checks would wrongly flag them as thin. We use this label to judge them fairly.

How to fix: No change needed. Keep these pages accurate, up to date and easy to find from the footer.

Does the topic affect health, money or safety? C6-YMYL-LEVEL

Why it matters: Google holds pages on topics that affect health, money or safety to the highest standard, because mistakes there can hurt people. The label tells you how strict the other checks should be.

How to fix: No change needed for the label itself. On such topics, show a qualified author, cite reliable sources and give clear information about who is responsible.

Main purpose of the page C7-PAGE-PURPOSE

Why it matters: Google judges every page by how well it achieves its purpose. Only pages made to deceive or with no benefit for people are a problem.

How to fix: Make the purpose obvious at first glance: a clear title, a short introduction and content that delivers what the page is for.

Not assessed

Practices we do not judge from a single page's content.

Policy / practice	Reason
Cloaking (different content for search engines and users; keywords inserted only for crawler user agents)	Requires two fetches (crawler vs browser) and a comparison. Planned as a dual-fetch feature.
Doorway abuse (multiple websites with slight URL variations; substantially similar pages closer to search results)	Requires comparing with sibling pages and other domains. From the page we assess only SP-DOOR-CITY and SP-DOOR-FUNNEL.
Expired domain abuse (confirmation)	From the page we assess only suspicion (SP-EXP). Confirmation requires domain history (Internet Archive).
Hacked content (redirects depending on referrer, user agent or device)	Requires fetches with different referrers and user agents.
Hidden text and link abuse (white text on white background; text behind an image)	The document has no computed colours or layout (only inline styles matching HIDDEN_STYLE). Requires rendering or an ingest extension.
Link spam (automated programs or services creating links to your site; inbound links)	Concerns inbound links to the site; requires a link profile, not page content.
Machine-generated traffic	Automated queries sent to Google; not a property of page content.
Malicious practices (malware or unwanted software confirmation)	From the page we assess only download prompts (SP-MAL-DOWNLOAD, SP-MAL-UNWANTED). Confirmation requires analysing the file.
Scaled content abuse (scale itself; multiple sites hiding the scaled nature of the content)	Scale and site networks require many pages and domains. From the page we assess only single-page signals (SP-SCA-*).
Scraping (copying without citing the original source)	Finding the source requires searching for sentences and comparing dates. From the page we assess SP-SCR-REPUB, SP-SCR-SPIN, SP-SCR-FEED, SP-SCR-EMBED.
Site reputation policy (confirmation; same content on multiple other sites; presentation and quality vs main domain)	From the page we assess only suspicion (SP-SRP-TOPIC, SP-SRP-UNAUTH). Confirmation requires host context and searching for copies.
Sneaky redirects	Requires following redirects that depend on device, referrer and user agent.
Thin affiliation (content distributed across an affiliate network, cookie-cutter sites)	Requires comparing with other domains. From the page we assess SP-AFF.
Scam and fraud (intentionally displaying false information about a business or service)	Whether business details are false requires external verification.
Legal removals / Personal information removals / Policy circumvention	These follow from the history of complaints and actions against the site, not from page content.
SQRG 4.5.2 Lowest reputation / 5.4 Mildly negative reputation	Requires reputation research (external search, reviews, media).
SQRG 4.5.3 Deceptive business information; fake or AI-generated author profiles; false credentials	Images are not part of the document and falsity requires external verification. Exaggerated claims are assessed by QR-OVERCLAIM.
SQRG 4.5.4 / 5.3 Obstructed or distracting ads and SC (ads covering MC, ads pushing MC down, white-on-white MC)	Requires rendering and a screenshot. From the page we assess only QR-INTERSTITIAL.
SQRG 4.6.6 Copied content (exact copy of an identifiable source)	Requires searching for sentences and comparing with the original. The page-level signal is SP-SCR-REPUB.
SQRG 4.6.5 Scaled content abuse (several pages of the site)	SQRG asks raters to look at several pages of the site. From the page we assess QR-TPL, QR-PAA, QR-INCOHERENT and SP-SCA-*.
SQRG 5.2 Mild factual inaccuracies	Requires fact-checking; from the page we assess only blatant errors (QR-ODDFACTS).
SQRG 9.2 Systemic broken pages	Requires many pages of the site. A single page without MC is assessed by QR-NOMC.
Helpful content (changing page dates to seem fresh without substantial change; adding or removing content to seem fresh)	Requires the page's version history (Internet Archive, comparing content over time); the date on the page alone is not enough.
Helpful content (lots of content on many topics; extensive automation on many topics; entering a niche for search traffic; writing about trends)	Properties of the site and its publishing process, not of a single page; requires reviewing many pages and the site's history.
Helpful content (substantial automation or AI-generation without disclosure where expected)	Missing disclosure is observable, but automation without artefacts is not; artefacts are assessed by QR-AIPHRASE, QR-TRUNC, QR-TPL.
Helpful content (fabricated author headshots; credentials checked against external records)	Requires image analysis and external verification. From the page we assess only QR-HC-FAKE-AUTHOR.
Helpful content (value compared with other pages in search results; reputation of the site as an authority)	Requires comparison with search results and reputation research.