What to Do If Your SEO Agency Got You Penalized | TTGC
Steps to recover from an SEO penalty and protect your site.
Worried your SEO provider caused a Google penalty? We will show you how to check for it. Then we will help you fix it. You can move forward safely.
How do I know if my site has a penalty?
Check Search Console for manual action alerts. These confirm a penalty. Algorithmic demotions are harder to spot. But they may show up in traffic drops.
Look for sudden traffic drops.
Compare rankings for key terms.
Use the URL Inspection tool.
What are common SEO penalties?
Common causes include spam links and thin content. Cloaking is another cause. Some providers use risky tactics. These tactics break Google's guidelines.
Spammy backlinks from low-quality sites.
Doorway pages or scraped content.
Hidden text or keyword stuffing.
How do I stop the bad SEO?
Cut ties with your provider right away. Ask them for access to all your accounts. Ask for the tools they used too.
Change your hosting and CMS passwords. Change your analytics password too.
Audit their work fully before hiring a new team.
How do I clean up the mess?
Remove or disavow bad links in Search Console. Then delete or fix spammy pages on your site.
Disavow harmful backlinks in Search Console.
Rewrite thin content to add value.
Fix technical issues like cloaking.
How do I file a reconsideration request?
Submit a detailed request in Search Console. Explain the fixes you made. Then ask Google to review your site again.
Be honest about past mistakes.
Show proof of your fixes.
Wait for Google's response.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will my rankings recover after a penalty?
A: Recovery depends on the damage and your fixes. Some sites bounce back fast. Others take months. Stay patient and keep improving your content.
Q: Can I trust another SEO agency after this?
A: Yes, but check them carefully. Ask for case studies and references. Ask how they handle a penalty. Avoid providers who promise quick results. Avoid those who use shady tactics.
Q: How long does a reconsideration request take?
A: Google usually reviews requests within weeks. Some cases take longer. This happens when Google needs more details. Check Search Console for updates.
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