Identify hidden content + Question of impact

[OscarSE]

I have a client that had a web agency which systematically implemented hidden content.

1. Is there a tool that will compare source content vs what is readable on from the browser? Otherwise, can you recommend articles that focus on doing this?

2. What are the impact on hidden content these days? Another client had hidden content on the first page and when we took over them they were ranking nr 2 with the home page on their brand name (nr 1 with a sub page). We have checked the link profile with Majestic, Ahrefs and Moz and nothing spammy comes up so I doubt it is Penguin related.

[seoman10]

Hiding content in an attempt to manipulate Google results is a violation of Webmaster guidelines and most likely will get you in trouble sooner or later.

Hidden content is a waste of time and resources.  Put the effort into some good on page content that helps people find what they want.

[WeAreDigital_BE]

Hi OscarSE,

I found a nice article on this item which was very useful for a client of us. It is about the impact of hidden text, where they executed a wide experiment about. You should definitely give it a look: https://www.rebootonline.com/blog/hidden-text-experiment/

[OscarSE]

Thanks for your effort. If you re-read my post, I'm not promoting the use of hidden content. In matter the fact, the opposite. I'm looking for ways to treat the symptoms caused by a web agency that used hidden content method.

I'm sure you mean well, though. Thanks!

[OscarSE]

Thank you!