Google Cracks Down on Sneaky Back Button Tricks to Boost User Freedom

Google is taking new steps to make the internet a better place for everyone. The company announced that it will start punishing websites that use a trick called 'back button hijacking. ' This trick happens when you try to use the back button on your browser to return to the previous page, but instead, the website keeps you stuck or shows you unwanted ads. Google says this kind of behavior is becoming more common, and it makes people frustrated when they are just trying to browse the web.

In a blog post, Google explained that starting June 15, it will consider back button hijacking a 'malicious practice. ' This means that websites using this trick could be ranked lower in Google Search results, or even removed from the results altogether. Google said that back button hijacking messes with how browsers are supposed to work and makes people feel manipulated. When people feel tricked by websites, they are less likely to visit new sites in the future.

Adam Thompson, who works at the Chartered Institute for IT, told the BBC that tricks like back button hijacking break the trust people have in the internet. He said it is understandable that Google wants to stop this kind of behavior. Google also gave advice to website owners, telling them to make sure their sites do not do anything that stops users from going back in their browser history. If a website is punished but then fixes the problem, they can ask Google to review their site and possibly remove the penalty. Google hopes these changes will make the internet safer and more enjoyable for everyone.