Paid Links And Java Script – Are They Worth The Effort

Google has penalized paid links for a long time now and a method used to get around this issue was to use java scripts. At one stage Google even suggested the use of java scripts. Is it still a worthwhile way to gain links?

Let me start by suggesting that paid links are always going to be risky. Google is one search engine that frowns very heavily on the practice of buying or selling page rank. Sites that have had PR values of 2, 3 or even 4 have seen that value disappear overnight, all because of paid links.

Matt Cutts has said in a video report that:

Google is not currently penalizing paid javascript links, but they may start looking down the line. He says it hasn’t been a big issue at all in his experience though.

Whilst many will focus on the first part of that statement, that Google in not currently penalizing paid java script links, it is the latter part that is important – they may start looking at it down the line. You can build a nice bank of incoming links using java script then overnight see your PageRank disappear – all because Google has decided to change its mind.

Organic link building is the best approach. Writing good content, networking with your peers, and linking out to appropriate content is one of the best ways to start a link building program. It certainly starts with good content – providing content that people are going to want to link to.

Link building using java script takes a lot of effort with only a small reward compared to the big picture. Go down that route if you wish, but keep your eyes on Google – you may find it all worthless – in the meantime, your organic links will continue to work for you. I know where I would rather focus my energies – links that will stand the test of time.