Since spamming practices are constantly evolving, it is important to know what the major search engines specifically say about spam and what practices are definitely not allowed if you would like to rank in top-tier search engines. Plus, every ethical SEO should know how to properly report any spam that they see, so that the search engines can correct their algorithm accordingly.

How Google Defines Spam

As part of their Webmaster Guidelines, Google outlines techniques to use to help Google locate, index and rank your website. They also specifically state that the following techniques may lead them to remove your site from the Google index:

• Hidden text or hidden links.
  
• Cloaking or sneaky redirects.
  
• Automated queries to Google.
  
• Pages loaded with irrelevant keywords.
  
• Multiple pages, sub domains, or domains with substantially duplicate content.
  
• "Doorway" pages created just for search engines, or other "cookie cutter" approaches such as affiliate programs with little or no original content.

However you should keep in mind that these aren't the only practices that Google disapproves of. Generally, Google doesn't like their results manipulated by deceptive practices. Their recommendation for webmasters is:

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