Glossary
What is a UGC link?
A UGC link is a link inside user-generated content, such as a comment, forum post or community profile, marked with rel="ugc". It tells search engines the site owner didn't write or vouch for the link. Google introduced the value in 2019 and treats it as a hint.
Where it's used
- Blog and forum comments.
- Q&A sites and community posts.
- Profile links on community platforms.
- Directories where anyone can add a listing without review.
Many such sites use nofollow ugc together.
Do UGC links help?
Directly, very little. Indirectly, a helpful answer in a busy community with a link to your product can send steady, qualified visitors. Dropping links in comments for SEO doesn't work and gets accounts banned. Treat communities as places to be useful, with links where they help the reader.
UGC vs other values
| Value | Meaning |
|---|---|
ugc |
Posted by users |
sponsored |
Paid |
nofollow |
Not vouched for (general) |
Example
A founder answers a detailed question on a developer forum and links to a doc page that solves it. The link is nofollow ugc. It brings 80 visitors that month and a few sign-ups; it adds nothing measurable to rankings, and it doesn't need to.
FAQ
Are UGC links bad?
No. They're normal on any site with user content.
Should I add rel="ugc" to comments on my blog?
Yes, for links in user comments, or use nofollow.
Do directory listings use ugc?
Some open directories do; reviewed directories more often use plain or nofollow links.