Google Double Downs On Not Using Link Disavow Files In A Bigger Way

Mar 10, 2023 - 7:41 am 6 by

Doubling Down Gif

Not too long ago, John Mueller from Google blasted an agency for using a disavow file and now he is doubling down on that, adding on Twitter in response to disavow link services, saying, "Some people do things that they can bill, regardless of whether it's needed or makes sense."

Recently, Gary Illyes from Google reiterated his disavow advice saying at PubCon not to use it. He repeated that it hurts more than it helps for the most part.

John also added the other day on Twitter, "To be honest, anyone who does not know, should *not* use it. That's why the tool is not a part of the search console UI. That's why our messaging has been consistently to not use it unless you know there's an actual issue. To paraphrase: When in doubt, leave disavow out."

So stop using the link disavow tool unless you have a manual action.

Here are these new tweets:

Even with super bad links pointing to your site, don't disavow:

Forum discussion at Twitter.

 

Popular Categories

The Pulse of the search community

Google Search Volatility

More Details

Search Video Recaps

 
Video Details More Videos Subscribe to Videos

Most Recent Articles

Search Forum Recap

Daily Search Forum Recap: July 9, 2026

Jul 9, 2026 - 10:00 am
Google Ads

Google Ads Formats That Don't Allow Alcohol Ads

Jul 9, 2026 - 7:51 am
Google

Google Merchant Center Next Is Now Just Google Merchant Center

Jul 9, 2026 - 7:41 am
Google Search Engine Optimization

Google Search Generative AI Controls Rolling Out Beyond UK Sites

Jul 9, 2026 - 7:31 am
Google Ads

Google Ads Tests Favicons In Sponsored Results Sitelinks

Jul 9, 2026 - 7:21 am
Google Ads

Google Ads Travel Search Campaigns Expands For Things To Do & Events Beta

Jul 9, 2026 - 7:11 am
 
Previous Story: Google Search Translation Tests Adding Search For This On Google