Google Search Experiencing Hijacking Issue in European Regions

Google Search is facing a potential bug in European regions, where hotel listings are reportedly being hijacked by spammy sites. Users searching for accommodations on Google may encounter legitimate listings from sites like TripAdvisor, Hotels.com, and Booking.com, but clicking on these links redirects them to unrelated, spammy sites.

The issue was highlighted by JC Chouinard, an SEO Strategist at TripAdvisor, who shared details and screenshots of the hijacking. Google has acknowledged the problem but has not provided any specific information about its cause or resolution.

Chouinard noted that the affected sites are not hacked; rather, the problem seems to be on Google’s end. He posted multiple examples of URLs displaying correctly in Google’s search results but redirecting users elsewhere when clicked.

Google’s Search Liaison, Danny Sullivan, mentioned on X that John Mueller, a search analyst at Google, is investigating the matter further. However, Chouinard stated that he had not been in direct contact with Mueller at the time of reporting.

It remains unclear how many users are being affected by this issue and how Google plans to address it. The extent of the problem and its impact on legitimate sites remain to be seen.