After hearing numerous complaints about the quality of Google Discover, I’m interested to see how Google plans to tackle the issue of fake AI spam. They’ve assured us that a solution is in progress.
I’m aware that Google is taking steps to remedy the situation with its Discover feed, especially with the appearance of fake AI spam in recent weeks. Google confirmed to the Press Gazette, which has reported several instances of this spam infiltration, that a fix is actively being developed.
Google’s Assurance. In their words:
“We keep the vast majority of spam out of Discover through robust spam-fighting systems and clear policies against new and emerging forms of low quality, manipulative content. We’re actively working on a fix that will better address the specific type of spam that’s being referenced here, maintaining our high bar for quality in Discover.”
The AI Spam Issue. From what I’ve read, the Press Gazette has meticulously documented instances where fake news stories have garnered tens of millions of views on the Google Discover platform in just a week. Here’s a glimpse of some of these fake stories as reported:
It’s fascinating how spammers are allegedly buying expired domains with previously trusted reputations, exploiting their domain authority to flood Google Discover with spam content. This tactic isn’t novel, and while Google Search generally manages these tricks well, many believe this is currently how spammers manipulate the Discover feed.
French data journalist Jean-Marc Manach has been tracking this issue, building a comprehensive database of fake sites generating AI stories. His list now includes over 8,300 entries in French, 300 in English, and 150 in German.
Why It Matters to Me. As someone who values relevant and trustworthy content, I understand the potential impact of Google Discover’s reach. These fake sites can momentarily generate significant revenue, only to be shut down, after which others rise in their place. It’s a cycle that Google is inevitably working to break, though new challenges will likely emerge.
Inspired by this post on Search Engine Land.
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