Google streamlines its privacy policy

In terms of SEO (search engine optimisation) this information is a potential gold mine. Just as Facebook ads can be directed at users’ location, gender, age etc, this new development to Google’s privacy policy could be a great opportunity for SEO practitioners. With information being manipulated, influenced and stored by Google more and more, the more scope there is for SEO experts to use Google to channel traffic to their desired audiences.

Google announced earlier this week that they are streamlining their privacy policies into a single document (presumably not hidden from spiders by robots.txt *SEO high five*.) This new policy will be used across all Google’s site and applications instead of the multiple separate policies that has existed previously. These numbered the mid-sixties and were considered to be diluting Google’s overall privacy message. The presentation of a clear, all-encompassing policy is seen by Google as an amalgamation of its views on user privacy as a whole. So far so good, but what is the significance for search engine optimisation?

Although this seems like a step forward, many are worried that the new policy will give Google too much insight into web users’ private information. According to a video released by Google’s privacy department, the search engine giant will be able to tell you when you will be late for a meeting based on your calendar, location, local traffic and weather conditions. It seems like a great new feature, but how will it affect search engine optimisation?

For some, this marks a dangerous increase in the information using search engines gives Google access to, but as far as SEO is concerned, this is great for business. Taking the example of being late for a meeting, in order to come to these conclusions Google would have to have unlimited access to your searches, the details you enter into your calendar, as well as your physical location. Bad news, perhaps, for the user; but great news for businesses targeting them with SEO.

Although I believe that Google is unlikely to start making users sign in in order to use their search facilities (effectively giving them permission to record your every move) there is currently nothing to prevent them from cookie tracking user to YouTube, Gmail, Google Maps and any Android phone users, all of which can be used effectively to create business conversions for those working with SEO companies.