Google is set to take action against websites that interfere with the browser back button, in a move aimed at improving user experience and tackling deceptive online practices.
The company announced that it will begin penalising sites that prevent users from returning to search results after clicking a link, instead redirecting them to unrelated pages, ads or other sections of the same website.
What is ‘back button manipulation’?
The issue arises when users click on a search result and attempt to go back, only to find themselves redirected elsewhere rather than returning to the original results page.
This tactic, often referred to as “history manipulation”, alters the browser’s navigation behaviour and can create confusion or frustration for users.
According to Google, such practices interfere with normal browsing and undermine trust.
New penalties from June 2026
Under updated spam policies, Google will treat this behaviour as a malicious practice and take enforcement action against offending sites.
Penalties may include reduced visibility in search rankings, either through automated systems or manual interventions.
The policy will come into effect on 15 June 2026, with Google giving website operators a two-month window to comply.
Focus on user experience
Google said the change reflects its broader priority of protecting users and ensuring predictable, transparent navigation online.
Practices that create a mismatch between what users expect and what they encounter, or that compromise security and privacy, will fall under the updated definition of harmful behaviour.
Website owners have been urged to remove or disable any features that interfere with standard browser functions.
Source: Lifo.gr