Are you on the search for a good SEO agency? If yes, then the chances are that you probably have been speaking to a few of them to understand what hits the mark for you.
But, in your quest to find the best one, you might have heard some bold statements that sound too good to be true.
You know, the kind of promises that make you raise an eyebrow and say, “Really? Are you Google’s BFF or something?
From guaranteeing you #1 rankings on Google, to claiming they have a secret algorithm passed down from an ancient SEO guru, some agencies really know how to spin a tale.
But, fear not, because we have you covered.
Read on to find out 20 common SEO lies agencies tell and how you can protect yourself from falling victim to them.
$90.35 billion to $106.9 billion is the projected growth for the SEO services market in 2025.
Source: WebFX
20 Most Common Lies Told By SEO Agencies
Some SEO agencies have mastered the art. The art of deception. They try to position themselves as the mecca of organic traffic and link building. However, they are about as organic as a plastic plant.
They’ll promise to “skyrocket” your rankings. But end up launching you into the depths of algorithm penalties instead.
So, the next time you think of making a decision, stop. Take a step back and check the list of lies we have jotted below.
Lie #1: We guarantee #1 rankings on Google
Hilarious. Because even Google can’t predict number 1 rankings themselves. Also, this is one of the most common lies you will get to hear.
No agency can guarantee a #1 ranking because search engines like Google constantly update their algorithms. Rankings depend on various factors like competition, keyword difficulty, and user behavior.
An agency may claim to provide you with first-page rankings, but even reaching that coveted sweet spot takes time, patience, and consistent efforts.
Lie #2: SEO is a One-Time Fix
SEO is an ongoing process. And it requires continuous effort. Search engines update their algorithms frequently, competitors consistently evolve, and audience preferences shift over time. A strategy that works today might be outdated tomorrow.
Regular updates, fresh content, technical maintenance, and adapting to trends are key for sustained success. Thus, agencies that promise quick, one-and-done solutions often rely on shortcuts that deliver temporary results. But that process can harm your rankings in the long run, and attract dreaded Google algorithm penalties.
Lie #3: SEO Results Happen Overnight
SEO is a marathon, not a sprint. And achieving meaningful results take time, which can range from several months to even a year. This is due to optimizations including, but not limited to building strong content, improving user experience, strong SEO practices, and earning quality backlinks.
Methods such as keyword stuffing, spammy backlinks, or deindexing, commonly fall under the umbrella term ‘black hat’ and are utilized by agencies that seek to achieve instant results.
And although a short-term increase in rankings is definite, several search engine guidelines are breached and a deindexing is almost always guaranteed.
Real SEO comes from consistent efforts, ethical practices, and a long-term strategy. Thus, if an agency claims they can deliver results overnight, it’s time to swipe left!
Lie #4: We Use Proprietary Tools Google Loves
This is another common lie told by SEO agencies to gain confidence from clients. And this is nothing more than a sales gimmick. Although there are several tools available for SEO, none of them are actually endorsed by Google.
Google has not endorsed any SEO tool !
Google’s algorithms are a closely guarded secret. And no tool or agency has insider access to them. The truth is, successful SEO relies more on expertise, strategy, and staying updated with industry trends than on any so-called proprietary tools.
So, if an agency is boasting about having tools “approved” by Google, it’s a tell-tale sign that they are overhyping their capabilities.
Lie #5: We have Insider connections at Google
This is another common lie told by SEO agencies to gain confidence from clients. And this is nothing more than a sales gimmick. Although there are several tools available for SEO, none of them are actually endorsed by Google.
Lie #6: More Traffic Equals More Success
This is another lie SEO agencies love to tell their customers. And while boosting traffic numbers may look impressive, not all traffic is valuable.
Some agencies use shady practices to increase visits to a website, including using their own team members to repeatedly spam a site to increase numbers.
What truly matters is attracting relevant and targeted traffic which is more likely to convert, or engage in a specific meaningful action like making a purchase, or filling out a form.
Thus, without this focus, the increase in traffic may not lead to actual success for your business.
Lie #7: Backlinks are all you need to rank
If this were the case, websites would rush to build as many backlinks as possible, thinking they are going to get their rankings up. But, bummer alert, it’s not the only way.
Google’s algorithm considers a wide range of factors, which include content quality, user experience, site speed, mobile-friendliness, and on-page SEO.
Thus, focusing solely on backlinks without addressing these other elements can lead to poor performance in search rankings and user engagement.
What these agencies won’t tell you, or wouldn’t know is that a balanced SEO strategy includes high-quality content and a well-optimized site.
Lie #8: We Can Help You Rank for Every Keyword
Another red flag!
Agencies that promise to rank you for dozens of keywords at once are overselling you the process.
SEO success isn’t about chasing every keyword out there. It’s about strategically targeting a set of high-value keywords that are relevant to your business goals.
Keywords aren’t created equal, as they have different levels of search volumes and competition. Moreover, they have varying search intent, which means there will be certain keywords in your field that wouldn’t make sense to your target audience.
Thus, be wary when your agency promises you honey spot rankings for all the keywords they have chosen. Try to scrutinize their list, and find out if they really align with your business goals.
Lie #9: You Don’t Need Content Updates
If this was true, your website would be that outdated cookbook, gathering dust on the shelf. Yeah sure, the recipes did work in the 90s, but no one’s making them anymore!
SEO experts have exhausted their last ounce of energy repeatedly shouting, “Content is king in SEO!”
But, some agencies believe that content once published, is done. There’s no need for further updates. And that’s far off from the truth.
Refreshing old blogs can boost traffic by 106%.
Source: Databox
Search engines like Google prioritize fresh, relevant content. Outdated content can cause your rankings to drop as both search engines and users look for more up-to-date, accurate information.
Without them, you’re just serving up yesterday’s leftovers and wondering why no one’s hungry.
Lie #10: We Handle Everything, You Don’t
Need to Do Anything
Another misleading promise. And a clear red flag for you.
A genuine SEO agency will want to collaborate with you actively to understand your business goals and objectives.
This is because SEO is a partnership, not a one-sided transaction. Agencies need input from clients to understand their business, industry, and specific goals, which helps them create effective strategies.
Without collaboration, the agency may miss crucial details that could make or break the campaign.
A strong SEO strategy is built on teamwork, not just handing over the reins and hoping for the best. And a good SEO partner values communication and transparency.
Lie #11: Our Services Are the Cheapest
Hmmm, right. But no, thank you.
Cheap services might sound tempting. But SEO is more of an investment, rather than a bargain hunt.
Agencies that offer you their services for extremely cheap rates could be cutting down on quality, and outsourcing 90% of their work to freelancers who think SEO stands for “Some Easy Optimization”. They may also rely on harmful shortcuts that can hurt your website’s rankings in the long run.
Quality SEO requires skilled professionals and ethical practices. And while cheaper options might seem tempting, they often result in wasted resources and even penalties.
When it comes to SEO, it’s simple. You get what you pay for.
Lie #12: We’ll Get Rid of Negative Reviews
This is one promise no agency can legitimately keep.
Negative reviews can’t just be erased; they’re a part of your online reputation.
Instead of chasing quick fixes, try to focus on improving customer service and addressing concerns in a genuine manner.
SEO agencies could also try to encourage happy clients to share positive feedback and use negative reviews as an opportunity to learn and grow. A strong and authentic reputation is one that Google ultimately favours. No quick fixes here either.
Lie #13: Paid ads can replace SEO
True Paid ads can drive immediate traffic and visibility. But they are in no way a substitute for SEO. Paid ads stop working the moment your budget runs out.
However, SEO helps in providing long-term benefits by building organic visibility and trust over time.
A strong SEO strategy ensures your site ranks well even without continuously spending on ads.
In short, paid ads and SEO complement each other, but one can’t fully replace the other.
You can think of it as sprinting versus running a marathon. Both of them have their place, but they serve different purposes.
Lie #14: Technical SEO is all you need
A misleading half-truth, that’s all.
Technical SEO, like optimizing page speed, fixing broken links, and ensuring mobile-friendliness, is essential for the solid foundation of a website.
However, it’s just one piece of the puzzle.
On-page strategies, such as creating valuable, keyword-rich content, and off-page tactics, like building quality backlinks and engaging in digital PR, are equally important.
When you ignore on-page and off-page SEO, you limit your site’s potential to rank and connect with your audience.
Lie #15: Local SEO Doesn’t Matter for Small
Businesses
And the lies continue.
Local SEO can be a game changer for small businesses. By claiming your Google Business Profile, gathering customer reviews, and optimizing for local keywords, you can attract nearby customers who are actively searching for your services.
46% of Google searches have local intent
Source: Backlinko
And for businesses that have a physical presence, local SEO ensures you appear in “near me” searches, Google Maps, and local directories. Ignoring Local SEO means missing out on valuable traffic and potential customers in your area.
Thus, if an agency dismisses Local SEO as unimportant, now you know how to school them.
Lie #16: You Don’t Need Social Media for SEO
Social media doesn’t directly affect SEO rankings. However, it’s a powerful strategy that complements and supports your overall SEO strategy.
Social media platforms help drive traffic to your website, amplify your content, and build brand awareness.
50% of marketers say social media boosts their website's search engine visibility.
When users share your content, it increases visibility and creates opportunities for backlinks and engagement. Social signals from these platforms also signal to Google that your brand is active and relevant.
Thus, a strong social presence goes hand-in-hand with SEO and makes it easier for your audience to connect with you.
Lie #17: We’ll get you 100% visibility
This claim is as unrealistic and far-fetched as promising clear skies and sunshine every day.
In the digital world, no website can achieve 100% visibility. This is because the internet is filled with numerous businesses, websites, and content creators who are tirelessly competing for attention. Thus, even the most successful of brands only dominate certain niches or keywords.
There are several factors that influence search engine rankings like user intent, competition, and algorithm updates. This makes it impossible for a business to show up everywhere online.
A genuine agency will try hard to improve your rankings and visibility in areas that matter to you the most.
If you hear “100% visibility”, it’s time to cut the cords on this one.
Lie #18: Negative SEO is a myth
Negative SEO is real. And a real threat.
Negative SEO involves attempts by your competitors to harm your rankings using black-hat techniques like using spammy backlinks, keyword stuffing or even scraping and duplicating your content across certain low-quality sites.
In 2020, 58% of SEO professionals experienced negative SEO attacks
A reputable SEO agency recognizes this threat. They’ll monitor your backlink profile, identify toxic links, and use tools like Google’s Disavow Links to counteract harmful practices.
Lie #19: We Guarantee ROI in X Days
Again we reiterate. SEO is a long-term and ongoing strategy. Definitely not a quick fix.
SEO success depends on different factors like industry, competition, and the state of your website when you are just starting out.
Thus, as you can see for yourself, SEO is a complex process, and agencies claiming ROI on a definite date better be astrologers.
SEO results take time to build, as they involve improving rankings, driving organic traffic, and converting visitors into customers.
An experienced SEO agency can set realistic expectations and track progress. However, no one can promise a fixed return within days or weeks. That’s pure nonsense.
Lie #20: We don’t need to track metrics
And this one is the last nail in the coffin. Inside which your SEO success lies.
Not tracking SEO metrics is like shooting in the dark. It’s a definite recipe for failure.
Metrics are the basic foundation of any SEO strategy. They provide you with insights into what works, what needs improvement, and how to adjust your strategy for better results.
There are several important metrics that one should track like traffic, keyword rankings, bounce rates, conversion rates, among others.
An agency that stresses not tracking metrics is hiding its inefficiencies, or operating without a clear strategy.
Pass, and keep searching.
That’s all folks, now you can safeguard your business and your hard-earned money from these SEO scammers!
On, and we have prepared a checklist to spot and avoid lies like these.
Check out the table below.
How to Spot and Avoid These Lies
Ask for Proof:
Request case studies, testimonials, or references from past clients.
Avoid High-Pressure Sales:
Reputable agencies give you time to decide, not pressure you into signing immediately.
Understand the Basics:
Educate yourself on SEO fundamentals so you can spot unrealistic claims.
Look for Transparency:
Choose agencies that provide clear reports and explain their strategies.
That’s a wrap!
Agencies need to learn that SEO is an ongoing process and not magic. Thus, avoid agencies that overpromise and underdeliver.
And by knowing these common lies that SEO agencies tell their potential clients, you can make more informed decisions and partner with agencies who genuinely care about your success.
At Nico Digital, we’re not just another SEO agency. We’re your growth partner. Unlike others, we don’t rely on cookie-cutter strategies or hollow promises.
Instead, we craft tailored SEO solutions backed by data, creativity, and a deep understanding of your industry.
Take the first step toward dominating the digital landscape—contact Nico Digital today and let’s unlock your brand’s full potential!
