Warning: Google's New Anti-Pirate Algorithm Means Minor Change to the Forum

[dgstorm]

We need to share a warning with all of our members and staff here on the site. About a month ago, we started slowly filtering out many of the [Free App] and/or [Free Download] style posts (see the above image as an example) on the site. We realized they seemed a bit too "spammy" and they didn't really contribute much in the way of useful discussion content on the site. As it turns out, we were a bit ahead of the curve in getting this started, and we will now need to take things to the next level to eliminate this stuff even further.

Google has just updated their search algorithm to target these types of spammy posts across the web because most of them end up pointing to pirated software sites, like Pirate Bay, Isohunt and Torrentz.eu. Google specifically calls out sites which carry search keywords like “download free movies,” “watch [movie name] online free,” online free movies,” “movies download,” “watch [movie name]” and “where can I watch [movie name] online.” With the new update, Google will basically "punish" sites for hosting too much of this type of content by reducing their search rankings and more.

Ultimately, the life-blood of keeping our site alive and thriving comes from our search rankings in Google. Because of this stricter anti-piracy update from Google, we have to step up our game to eliminate these types of posts and remove sections which have too much of this type of content. We apologize if this causes inconvenience to any of our members, and we request that you help our amazing staff spot these sections. If you see a collection of "app announcements" with any of these spammy type keywords, please let us know (or if you are an admin or moderator remove them). Afterwards, let JohnDroid or Cereal Killer know so we can follow up if necessary.

Thanks for your patience and understanding as we adjust to Google's new changes.