Google Changes Algorithm to Exclude Holocaust Denial Sites

Google removes Holocaust denial sites from top search results.

As the largest and most popular search engine in the world, Google can be an amazing tool for people to learn more about the world, but it can even lead to the spread of propaganda and misinformation if it isn’t adequately managed.

For example, when users search for certain keywords like Holocaust denial, you can expect several authoritative sites showing undisputed evidence of that atrocious historical event. However, there are some sites promoted by groups that either don’t believe the Holocaust happened or they just want people to think that. One such site, Stormfront, supported by Neo-Nazi and supremacist groups was at the top of Google’s search results for Holocaust denial alongside the sites of Jewish museums.

This situation was first reported by the marketing director of the Breman Museum located in Atlanta, Georgia. The museum is paying Google in advertisements fees so that it is promoted among the first search results when people search Holocaust-related terms. However, the Holocaust denial site Stormfront did not pay such fees and it was still the top result despite being a hateful website promoting false information.

The Breman Museum filed a complaint with the company and as a result, Google has made various tweaks to its search algorithm so that other sites similar to Stormfront, which are promoting hate and false facts like the denial of the Holocaust will no longer be shown in the first few pages of the search results. Furthermore, Google has emphasized its search algorithm with offer users more credible content with better quality. It will also take direct actions against non-authoritative sites promoting misinformation.

Google’s current standing regarding this matter has changed since it first came to light. The company initially did not want to take any action, expressing their commitment to a free and open internet. This position was similar to that of Facebook in regards to their fake news controversy. However, facing an increasing amount of backlash, they decided to implement the discussed changes.

At this point, Holocaust denial site, Stormfront is still showing on the first page of the search results, but it’s gradually losing its standing as it takes time for Google’s changes to their search algorithm to have a full effect. The company has also stated that such tweaks can be challenging and it does not always get it right on the first try.

Bio
Latest Posts

Deborah Campbell

Deborah Campbell grew up on a steady diet of fantasy stories, 19th century poetry and Greek mythology. It’s no wonder she turned into such a hopeless romantic. She has always had a knack for writing, but she has yet to publish any best-seller yet. At the beginning of 2013 she decided to try something a little different: she started working for a web design firm, as a creative artist. That’s where she discovered her second calling. Although seemingly opposite, fantasy and technology are Deborah’s two main passions. She is now part of the argyllfreepress.com team, for which she creates detailed tutorials & reviews for some of the world’s most exciting gadgets. She also tries to squeeze a verse or two in her reviews from time to time.