In a controversial move, Google recently made it known that it would no longer run advertisements for essay writing services on its AdWords platform. Universities and those employed in academic fields applauded the move, while sites run by essay writing/selling companies are crying foul.
This move means that these companies that sell essays online are placed on the same content blacklist which includes advertisements for weapons, drugs, tobacco, prostitution, fake documents, and miracle cures.
Universities U.K. estimates that up to 12,000 essays are sold to students each year, and many with hefty price tags, making the industry quite appealing to those involved.
Google said that its advertising policies are "developed and evaluated based on multiple factors, including legal and cultural considerations plus user and customer experience."
Professors are probably clapping their hands with smiles on their faces, while essay writing firms are probably pounding fists on their tables.
Though plagiarism concerns are probably a bit quelled thanks to this move, it also seems to be more of a statement and a light slap on the wrist than a big crackdown on the part of Google. This is because these essay writing sites can still be easily found in the search results pages. Besides, many more clicks originate from search results links than from sponsored links.
So, while the move may put a small dent in essay writing firms’ prides and maybe even their wallets, it should not affect their long-term financial viability.
Sources:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/education/6680457.stm
http://www.webpronews.com/blogtalk/2007/06/04/
google-bans-ads-for-essay-writing-servicesc
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