Google bombing

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Google[4] bombing is an internet[5] phenomenon that dates back to 1999. The term was coined in 2001 by Adam Mathes and it refers to the practice of manipulating Google’s search engine[1] results to influence public perception or gain media attention. This manipulation is typically done through linking strategies, with the goal of making a specific webpage rank highly for unrelated or negative search terms. Over the years, Google bombing tactics have evolved and have even been utilized in media attacks or parody campaigns. However, changes in Google’s algorithm[2] and indexing structure have led to a decrease in the effectiveness of Google bombing. Despite this, Google bombing remains a controversial topic due to its potential misuse in lowering competitors’ rankings, known as Google bowling, and for commercial spamdexing[3].

Terms definitions
1. search engine. A search engine is a vital tool that functions as part of a distributed computing system. It's a software system that responds to user queries by providing a list of hyperlinks, summaries, and images. It utilizes a complex indexing system, which is continuously updated by web crawlers that mine data from web servers. Some content, however, remains inaccessible to these crawlers. The speed and efficiency of a search engine are highly dependent on its indexing system. Users interact with search engines via a web browser or app, inputting queries and receiving suggestions as they type. The results may be filtered to specific types, and the system can be accessed on various devices. This tool is significant as it allows users to navigate the vast web, find relevant content, and efficiently retrieve information.
2. algorithm. An algorithm is a well-defined sequence of instructions or rules that provides a solution to a specific problem or task. Originating from ancient civilizations, algorithms have evolved through centuries and are now integral to modern computing. They are designed using techniques such as divide-and-conquer and are evaluated for efficiency using measures like big O notation. Algorithms can be represented in various forms like pseudocode, flowcharts, or programming languages. They are executed by translating them into a language that computers can understand, with the speed of execution dependent on the instruction set used. Algorithms can be classified based on their implementation or design paradigm, and their efficiency can significantly impact processing time. Understanding and using algorithms effectively is crucial in fields like computer science and artificial intelligence.
Google bombing (Wikipedia)

The terms Google bombing and Googlewashing refer to the practice of causing a website to rank highly in web search engine results for irrelevant, unrelated or off-topic search terms by linking heavily. In contrast, search engine optimization (SEO) is the practice of improving the search engine listings of web pages for relevant search terms.

An example of Google bombing in 2006 that caused the search query "miserable failure" to be associated with George W. Bush and Michael Moore

Google-bombing is done for either business, political, or comedic purposes (or some combination thereof). Google's search-rank algorithm ranks pages higher for a particular search phrase if enough other pages linked to it use similar anchor text. By January 2007, however, Google had tweaked its search algorithm to counter popular Google bombs such as "miserable failure" leading to George W. Bush and Michael Moore; now, search results list pages about the Google bomb itself. Since no later than 21 June 2015, the first result in a Google search for "miserable failure" is this article. Used both as a verb and a noun, "Google bombing" was introduced to the New Oxford American Dictionary in May 2005.

Google bombing is related to spamdexing, the practice of deliberately modifying HTML to increase the chance of a website being placed close to the beginning of search engine results, or to influence the category to which the page is assigned in a misleading or dishonest manner.

The term Googlewashing was coined by Andrew Orlowski in 2003 in order to describe the use of media manipulation to change the perception of a term, or push out competition from search engine results pages (SERPs).

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