When we heard about ABC3000, an SEO plug-in that offers users a network of backlink partners, we purchased the plug-in so that we could test its advertised claims. After using the plug-in and doing deep research of the backlinks provided, we discovered that most of the alleged partners were the software makers themselves.

Once the plug-in is purchased, the user puts it on their website and it is purported to drive thousands of backlinks. After taking a closer look at the sites that backlink to the plug-in, it appears that just about all of them are affiliated with the makers of ABC3000.

Basically, users are paying the makers of ABC3000 to promote their websites. The maker states that you can use the plug-in on any website, but the links will mostly likely do no good and may even hurt your existing rank.

The plug-in places links throughout the user’s website, however there is no indication as to where backlinks to the user’s site are being placed.

In our expert opinion, this seems to be a link building scam with no network that uses people to promote their own business. In addition, there is no way to contact the makers of the software.

While the company website (http://blog.abc3k.com/) says that software support is included with purchase, including a fully-staffed support desk, emails to the company bounce back and the phone number listed (800.555.1212) appears to be bogus.

The company claims that this plug-in is so good that it will skyrocket a user’s rank, but using www.semrush.com to investigate the software website, we found that it scores for a total of 26 words, with only nine having a first page rank.

According to semrush.com, the website scored for only four keywords in March and now scores for 24, which is most likely because their unknowing customers are placing backlinks for them all over their site, helping them to get a better rank.

The bottom line is that if SEO software like this sounds too good to be true, it usually is.