Google Fred Update is a major algorithm update released by Google in 2017. It's not a radical change, but is considered significant as it has changed the way that some websites are ranked in Google search results.
What is the Google Fred Algorithm?
The Google Fred algorithm is a major search engine update rolled out by Google in March 2017. It is designed to target low-quality websites that make money from advertising, or promotional content mostly targeting low-value keywords. In contrast to other updates such as Penguin and Panda, Fred is not confined to one aspect of search engine optimization (SEO). It has a wide-reaching effect and can affect the rankings of both low- and high-quality websites.
What Are the Core Principles of the Google Fred Update?
The key elements of Google’s Fred update are focused on reducing the prevalence of low-quality content and promotional activities. Some of the core principles of the Fred update include:
Identifying websites and content that is of poor quality
Targeting websites and content that is mostly promotional
Impacting the rankings of poor quality content
What are the Types of Websites Affected by Google Fred?
Google Fred is a targeted update that affects websites which have a not low-quality content and are highly promotional by nature. Some of the websites and types of content that may be affected by the Fred algorithm update include:
Websites with little to no original content
Sites with too much ads and affiliate links
Sites that are keyword stuffed
Become a Sales & Marketing Rainmaker
Learn valuable skills to win more customers, grow your business, and increase your profits.
Low-value content such as low-quality blog posts
Websites and content that focus heavily on monetization
What are the Symptoms of a Website Affected by Google Fred?
If a website has been affected by the Google Fred update, the most likely symptom is a sudden drop in website rankings or traffic. This drop can be drastic or subtle, but either way it could be very damaging to the affected website’s business. Once a website has been affected by the Fred update, the sharp decline in rankings or traffic should serve as a cue to address any issues that may have led to the drop.
What SEO Best Practices Can I Implement to Avoid Being Hit by the Google Fred Update?
Since Google Fred targets low-quality content, any SEO best practices should focus on creating and delivering high-value, unique content. Here are some tips that can help prevent being hit by the Fred update:
Focus on creating quality content that is clearly and accurately written
Make sure content is unique and values-oriented
Structure website and content for easy navigation and readability
Refrain from keyword stuffing
Keep ads, affiliate banners, and other promotional content to a minimum
Monitor and manage backlinks to ensure their quality