Does Google and other engines penalize for linking an *?

I need to make an * linked so people can see the disclaimer

[walkman]

is that ok? I know this guy was banned from y! for linking _ _ _. I think he it to trick the search engines but I'm just linking the * to the bottom of the screen where the explanation is. Will it trigger any filters, and if so, what should I use instead?

[ScottM]

What is wrong with making "*See Disclaimer" a link?

If you link just as you've described, who will even notice it?

If it's not for your users, or, if your users won't notice it...what's the point of even having that link?

[walkman]

users will notice it because it's right next to the word that needs the disclaimer. I rather not link a full sentence.

[ScottM]

If it works for your users...then go for it.

Personally, I'd never notice a link from an * [webmasterworld.com] but maybe that's just me?

[walkman]

you never notice an * next to something? Let's
say it's: Free Pizza*. You will not notice the *?

[pmac]

>You will not notice the *?

Notice it? Yeah. Click on it, no.

I'm guessing thats your reason for wanting to do it.

<added>

>Will it trigger any filters<

No.

</added>

[edited by: pmac at 2:24 am (utc) on Mar. 27, 2004]

[Webwork]

If I was angry about your product or service, and saved a screen shot that showed that the "link" to your "disclaimer" was nothing more than a "*" you would likely have a bad day in court, or with the credit card company when I asked for a refund/chargeback.

Pmac's post rings true on this.

[ScottM]

Dumb question, but did anyone click on the link in my post above?

You know, the one with an * in the post? It was even underlined! Why didn't you notice that?

:>)

[walkman]

"If I was angry about your product or service "
that is not the issue. I don't sell anything. I just want people to be aware that "widget" is sometimes called something different. When they go to the site I'm reviewing, and see a different name, hopefuly that rings a bell to them. I can't post the correct name for all sites, it somewhat dynamic. That's why...not trying to scam anyone :)

[deejay]

If the link was to the disclaimer further down the same page, ie, the same way you would use an asterisk on any document, I certainly wouldn't have a problem with it as a user. Users will scroll down to find the asterisk notation. If it were a link to another page, then users are unlikely to connect and will miss the disclaimer.

As to your question about search engine penalties, no, there's no reason for a penalty there either way. You will, of course, miss out on any link text advantages.