Using iframes to hide affiliate links

[Tkdka]

I currently have an affiliate search box on my new site. I’d like to hide it from Google by placing it in an iframe. Would this help my landing page quality score? Also, would it be considered unethical in the industry?

[markwelch]

I think your main question is really "Does Google treat content in an iframe differently than the same content embedded directly in my page?" I don't know the answer, but I'm certain that the answer will change over time.

I certainly don't think it would be considered unethical. An iframe is a reasonable solution to placing any "block of content" on your site. (Just make sure that the links inside the iframe will open a new window or tab, instead of loading the destination site into the tiny iframe window.) You aren't really "hiding" the content in the iframe, since Google can choose whether to include or exclude it from indexing (and computation of PageRank).

[Catalyst]

Be careful. iFrames are against the TOS of many affiliate programs. Check to be sure the merchant does not forbid it or you stand a chance of not getting paid and/or losing your affiliation with that merchant.

Linda

[Tkdka]

Thanks you all. Good points.

Linda, I'm not framing their site, just using frames on my site. I think I'll be ok, but i'll check again just in case.

~Tom