Google’s undocumented method to disavow a whole TLD

John Mueller from Google said you can block a complete TLD, top-level-domain, using the link disavow tool. He said it is not something Google documents because “Given how big of a hammer it is, I don’t know if it’s something we should really suggest in the docs.”

How does it work. All you need to do is use the syntax “domain:abc” in the disavow file. John posted this one Bluesky saying:

• “If you’re sure that it’s what you want to do, you can use “domain:abc” in the disavow file. Keep in mind that you can’t carve out specific domains if you like some, but if you find the TLD is almost only annoying spammers, it’ll save you time.”

He later added:

• “Given how big of a hammer it is, I don’t know if it’s something we should really suggest in the docs. I’m sure all TLDs have some good sites.”

Why we care. If there is on TLD that is concerning to you, sure, you can go ahead and disavow the whole TLD. But it might be better to be more selective of how you use the disavow file and don’t just block TLDs at a whole.

For more on the disavow link file, see this help document.

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