Comment Links and Pingbacks

[MichaelGregory]

I'm updating articles on a large site, some have links in the comments (WP site). The question is:

1. Should I remove the links in the comments, or does Google even care?

2. How do pingbacks affect ranking?

[Bob_van_Biezen]

Hi,

About point one:

Links in comments can be a great addition to your posts if they are legit and an extent of your post. Typically this is not the case with most comment links. Make sure you clean up any spammy (promotional) links or work with a trusted user system. This way you can promote legit user that are actively participating on your blog to post (do)follow links. I know Yoast.com works that way on their blog.

About point two:

This discussion on Moz should provide you with an answer:

https://moz.com/community/q/do-pingbacks-in-wordpress-help-or-harm-seo-or-neither

I hope this helps!

Best regards,

Bob