Google bans AI manipulation as spam

google expanded its web spam policy to address 'generative engine optimization', specifically targeting tactics like 'recommendation poisoning' where users inject hidden instructions into web content to influence ai overviews. the policy update follows demonstrations, such as a bbc journalist tricking google into ranking him as a top hot dog eater, highlighting vulnerabilities in generative search systems. google classifies these manipulative attempts as spam, stating that deception includes tricking systems into featuring content or altering generative ai responses. enforcement actions are severe, ranging from reduced search visibility to complete index removal, as google aims to preserve the integrity of its ai-driven search features.