What’s been going on in the Western World with SEO and Search Engines?

With Google’s recent actions, the SEO world this week in February has been gripped by excitement and concern, akin to a rollercoaster ride through the digital landscape. 

Join my SEO updates show, showing that SEO is not just about looking at Excel and keywords or getting an email with a backlink rejection starting with the letter F.

I’m hoping to keep myself informed by keeping it humorous for all. Here’s some of the top stories this week.


  1. Updated rel=canonical Documentation finally: Google is dusting off its rulebook and giving webmasters a clearer path to SEO success like making the documentation clearer. I remember reading it for the first time and still have cold sweats with the ‘wait but’, ‘if I did this would I?’. It’s about time and now it’s like getting a GPS upgrade from using a sundial for directions.
  2. “How Search Works” Series Launched by Google: Google is pulling back the curtain on SEO secrets with this series, making it easier for everyone to understand how search engines do their magic tricks, now on YouTube. Gary Ilyes is the narrator, making it a lot of fun given his cynical tone that makes his to lovable!
  3. In an effort to ensure ads are authentic and not deceiving usersGoogle has implemented a number of measures to prevent impersonation in ads. To ensure authenticity, “We verify advertiser identities and use automated systems to detect and block suspicious ads”, says Big-G. Just watch how the black-hat community comes back to fill the bad-ad coffers. More news once we know……
  4. Google’s Consent Mode for European Advertisers: March is coming in like a lion for European advertisers as Google tightens the reins on customized ads. It’s like signing a permission slip before entering the ad playground.
  5. Apparently Google’s Reviews Algorithm needs a reviewPerhaps not from Trustpilot. The preference for bigger brands leaves smaller publishers feeling like they’re swimming in the kiddie pool while the big fish swim around as it appears biased. It’s time for Google to level the playing field! Something which SME’s have known about for ages! Anyone fear an anti-trust coming on?
  6. Google has announced that Merchants will now be able to showcase their products in all their glorious variations in schema, making it easier for customers to find that perfect shade of pink unicorn slippers they’ve been dreaming of. Yeah more schema, yeehaw!
  7. Google Updates Image Removal Guidance: It’s like Google is playing hide and seek with images, giving webmasters new ways to keep their online presence squeaky clean. Complete with a brillopad! 
  8. With its new search features in Europe, Google is complying with Digital Markets Act (DMA) regulations by putting on its European hat and launching a digital tour of Europe for users – rolling out in lots of algorithms – now and tomorrow!

UK SEO WEATHER FOR THE WEEK

Now to the UK weather with SEMRush Sensor. It’s a big angry 8 right now. So something’s hitting the fan for this leap year – just to drag it out.

A. Leaton
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Published by A. Leaton

Over 12 years’ experience in diverse digital marketing settings within international start-up and corporate environments. Proven ability to deliver conversion and traffic uplift results through hands-on execution of multilingual and international SEO, email, content, social media, PPC, broadsheet PR, web-development, email marketing, and CRM strategies and campaigns.

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