Getting backlinks removed from Google

canceled 'bad' link buy backlinks still displaying

[Gshaughn]

In 2003 I purchased a site wide text link for a client's site. The link buy was canceled about 2 years ago as I realized it 1) wasn't relevant 2) was easily identifiable as a link buy (when the press came out about link buys 'bad' perception) and 3) ongoing expense.

There are still thousands of links showing up on archived pages of this non-relevant site, with recent cache dates.

Has anyone run into this issue - where back links are 'live' that you don't want? I fear that these links could be detrimental.

Is there anything I can do beyond trying to contact the site and requesting the links I am no longer paying for be removed?

Thanks,
Greg

[bakedbeans12]

Well once back links are on someone else's page you have no choice but to wait until they are removed.

Then it can take several months before google's cache is changed... So basically give it time.

[martinibuster]

Have you tried working with the agency your purchased the links from? Try that first if you haven't already done so.

Why can't you contact the site directly? If you've worked through the agency, it seems only reasonable to contact the site directly and request the links to be removed.

[Gshaughn]

Thanks - I contacted the site and they agreed to remove the links. I guess I was more concerned about 'flushing' them from google, but first things first.

Thanks,
Greg