Google’s September 2026 spam update is still active, with the Google Search Status Dashboard continuing to list the rollout as active as of October 4, 2026.
Google began the update on September 24, 2026, at 9:15 a.m. PDT and said the global rollout could take up to two weeks. Google Search Status Dashboard
Ranking volatility continues
The update was followed by noticeable ranking movement in late September, with additional volatility reported around September 30 and October 1.
SEO industry observers described the renewed movement as a possible second wave of the update. However, Google has not officially confirmed September 30 as a separate phase. The official status remains one September 2026 spam update. Search Engine Roundtable report
Google has also not identified a specific spam tactic being targeted. The update applies globally across all languages, so ranking changes should not automatically be attributed to one particular SEO issue. Google Search Status Dashboard
What SEO teams should monitor
While the update remains active, compare performance against a pre-update baseline and look for patterns across affected URLs.
- Organic clicks and impressions
- Ranking changes for important queries
- Pages gaining or losing visibility
- Sections or templates affected disproportionately
- Changes beginning around September 25–27
- Additional movement around September 30 and October 1
- Technical, content, or site changes made during the same period
If traffic has changed significantly, a technical SEO audit can help separate potential ranking effects from unrelated site problems. An SEO audit workflow can also provide a structured way to document and investigate changes.
The rollout is not finished
As of October 4, Google still lists the September 2026 spam update as Active. Until Google posts a completion notice, further ranking movement remains possible.
For now, monitor performance, document changes, and avoid making major SEO decisions based on short-term volatility alone.