AOL and OPD

"recommended sites" who are they trying to fool?

[mona]

AOL states this [search.aol.com]-

>>>AOL always tries to give you the best information at the top of the page.

>>>*Recommended Sites are picked by AOL editors and are a very close match to what you're looking for.

I think this statement is very misleading. I searched for the word
Phish [search.aol.com](they are a band in case you don't know)

Under "recommended sites" the only listing is for a site that sells cds.

This is why I think this statement is misleading.

1) This site is not in any category at ODP relating to Phish.
2) There actually is a site in the Phish category chosen by an editor as a "cool site", why isn't that site listed?
3) Isn't it ironic that the same site which happens to have payed AOL for advertising (banner advertisement) for this keyword is also listed a recommended site?

[JamesR]

mona, I think the term "misleading" and search engine pr and business practices go hand in hand, that is why many here don't have any sympathy for the engines and will do whatever it takes to get listed or at least don't mind ignoring SE requests against our tactics.

[mona]

You've got that right. You can count me in the ranks as non-sympathizer, too:)

[skibum]

AOL is not the only one with deceptively "cloaked" or hidden advertising. See

[webmasterworld.com...]

[skibum]

see also:

[businessweek.com...]

[grnidone]

Mona,

See your stickeymail (in the menu above the blue line) at the top of the page.

-G