Addressing Google Crawler Adding "/1000" to URLs: Q&A

Dealing with Google Crawler Quirk: "/1000" Appending to URLs Since Jan 9, 2024

As of January 9, 2024, an unexpected quirk has emerged, causing the Google crawler to append "/1000" to numerous URLs across various Google Console properties. The fallout? A surge of 404 pages infiltrated the Pages Not Indexed list in the search console.

Is it a Bug or a Feature?

This peculiar behavior seems more like a bug on Google's end rather than a deliberate feature. Despite diligent searches, no existing threads addressing this issue have surfaced. If you've stumbled upon this anomaly too, you're not alone!

A Curious Case Unfolding Across US SEO Circles

In the vast landscape of SEO, a collective gasp echoed as several SEOs in the United States unearthed an intriguing phenomenon—thousands of 404s, each appending "/1000" to URLs. Delving deeper, a common thread emerged—every affected URL was externally linked by spam sites.

Google's Spam Sentry: /1000 Strikes

An astute observation suggests that Google's spam radar might be at play. URLs linked by spammy domains are seemingly flagged, adding the "/1000" suffix. While these URLs now lead to 404s, the potential harm might be averted.

Caution on Redirects: Navigating the Unknown

Exercise caution in redirecting these URLs, as the origin of the spam may still pose a threat. A meticulous approach to safeguarding crawl budgets and preventing harm is essential.

Answer:

These URLs originate from spammy sites. Redirecting them to functional pages is not advisable; instead, let them result in 404 errors.

Question:

How can I ensure that the URLs with /1000, currently treated as redirects to the original pages on my site. The /1000 are not being indexed by Google but I still would like to move them to 404s.

Are there specific directives or lines in the .htaccess file that can be employed for this purpose?

Answer:

To transform the URLs with /1000, currently treated as redirects to the original pages on your site, into 404 errors, you can use the following directives in your .htaccess file:

A Call to Share Insights

As the SEO community grapples with this mystery, collaborative insights become invaluable. Have you encountered similar instances or unraveled the intricacies? Your experience could shed light on this evolving saga.

Adaptability is Key: Keep Vigilant

In the dynamic realm of SEO, adaptability reigns supreme. Stay vigilant, share findings, and let's collectively decode the nuances of this SEO enigma. Together, we fortify the digital landscape against unseen challenges.

Seeking Solutions

While the root cause remains elusive, tackling the consequences is crucial. From scrutinizing Google Console data to deciphering potential patterns, this conundrum demands attention. Whether it's an algorithm hiccup or a temporary glitch, understanding and resolving this matter is paramount.

Stay Informed

In the ever-evolving realm of search engine algorithms, adaptability is key. Stay tuned for updates, and if you've encountered similar challenges or found solutions, sharing insights could be invaluable.

Unraveling the "/1000" Enigma: SEOs Unite Against Spam-Induced 404s.

If you have any questions related to SEO, digital marketing, content creation, or any other topic, feel free to ask, and I'll do my best to provide helpful and informative answers.