Will this update lower my rankings?

Only content or tactics that violate Google's spam policies are affected; no major change is expected for sites that follow the rules.

Google launches a new spam update

Short answer

Google has updated its automated systems that target spam in search results once again, rolling the change out worldwide in all languages at once. The company did not say which spam tactic is targeted; it noted only that non-compliant sites may drop in rankings, while compliant sites can recover over time. The process is expected to take several weeks.

Highlights

Google has rolled out the fourth search spam update of 2026 globally and in all languages.
For the first time the company has given a two-week completion window; the previous three updates finished within a few days.
Google has not disclosed which spam tactic is being targeted.

A Google search page displayed on a tablet screen — Photo: AS Photography / Pexels

25 September 20262 min read

Google began rolling out the fourth search spam update of 2026 globally and in all languages on 24 September, according to Search Engine Journal. According to the company's Search Status Dashboard, the update may take up to two weeks to complete. Google has not disclosed which spam tactic is being targeted.

How does it differ from previous updates?

Spam updates were also released in March, June and August this year, and for all three Google put the completion time at 'a few days'. Giving a two-week window for the first time with the September update can be read as a sign that its scope may be broader.

What should sites do during the rollout?

If rankings or traffic change, Google recommends first checking whether Search Console data lines up with the timing of the update. Sites that lose rankings should review the spam policies; even once they comply, it can take months for the automated systems to 'learn' this.

Rankings may fluctuate several times over the two-week period, so agencies should wait to see whether a trend is lasting before warning clients early. Because Google's spam policies emphasise originality and source transparency, it may be a sensible precaution for content teams to keep investing in these areas regardless of the update.

Do not immediately blame a traffic drop on the update; keep measuring throughout the two-week rollout window.
Monitor the Manual Actions report in Search Console alongside your ranking charts.
Even if you bring your site into compliance, the effect can take months to show; do not rush to delete content.

Frequently asked

Will this update lower my rankings?: Only content or tactics that violate Google's spam policies are affected; no major change is expected for sites that follow the rules.