How to block api.whatsmyserp.com referrer spam in Google Analytics

Understanding Referral Spam in Google Analytics

Referrer spam poses a persistent challenge for website owners who rely on Google Analytics to assess their website’s performance accurately. This deceptive practice distorts crucial data, skewing website traffic statistics and potentially leading to misguided analyses and suboptimal decision-making. Addressing and mitigating such spamming practices, particularly those originating from domains like api.whatsmyserp.com, is crucial to preserving the integrity of analytics data and ensuring informed decision-making processes.

One prevalent form of referral spam is ghost spam, a stealthy technique injecting fake traffic directly into Google Analytics without genuine user interactions. Domains like api.whatsmyserp.com often serve as conduits for this fraudulent traffic.

Why “api.whatsmyserp.com” is Spamming You

Referral spam originating from api.whatsmyserp.com and similar domains not only distorts analytics data but also poses significant security risks for website owners and visitors. These domains often redirect users to an array of websites, including those promoting deceptive survey scams designed to gather personal data. Furthermore, they may lead users to platforms soliciting notification permissions and displaying intrusive advertisements.

The tactics employed by api.whatsmyserp.com are aimed at promoting its SEO services, utilizing spamming techniques to gain visibility. This spamming activity can greatly compromise the accuracy of analytics data, resulting in misguided business decisions and wasted resources. Moreover, interacting with suspicious links from api.whatsmyserp.com may unknowingly expose users to phishing attempts, malware, and other cyber threats, eroding trust and endangering cybersecurity. As illustrated above, visiting the domain may redirect users to various websites, some requiring users to verify their human identity by enabling notifications. This action grants the website permission to display advertisements directly to users through desktop notifications, potentially disrupting their browsing experience and exposing them to further risks.

How to Block “api.whatsmyserp.com” in Google Analytics

Safeguarding your website from referral spam originating from api.whatsmyserp.com requires proactive measures within Google Analytics:

Step 1: Establish a New Filter

• Access your Google Analytics account and navigate to the Admin section. Under the View column, select “Filters,” then click on “Add Filter.”

Step 2: Define the Filter

• Opt for the “Custom” filter type and designate “Exclude” as the action. Choose “Campaign Source” from the “Filter Field” drop-down menu. Enter “api.whatsmyserp.com” in the “Filter Pattern” field, and verify the filter setup.

Step 3: Apply the Filter

• Give your filter a descriptive name (e.g., “Referral Spam Filter”) and select the views to which you want to apply it. Save the filter to enforce the exclusion of traffic from api.whatsmyserp.com.

While this filter effectively blocks api.whatsmyserp.com and similar domains, maintaining vigilance is paramount. Continuously monitor your analytics data, adjusting filters as necessary to combat evolving spamming tactics and uphold the accuracy and integrity of your website analytics.