About Link Index

Link Index is an independent editorial project by Caspian Wilder (United States). I review backlink agencies, marketplaces, tactics, and metrics. I don't sell links and I don't take affiliate commissions for rankings. I also don't pretend every method is safe or every vendor is honest. If something looks like a bad bet, I'll say so — and explain why.

This site exists because the link building industry is full of claims that fall apart under scrutiny. A vendor promises 'Google-safe links' from 'high authority' sites, but when you look at the actual domains, they're PBNs or expired junk. Or a tactic gets hyped on Twitter as the next big thing, but nobody checks whether it actually moves rankings. I try to fill that gap.

I look at claims, pricing transparency, delivery model, and what a careful buyer can verify before paying. When something is strong, I say so. When it's weak, I explain the failure mode.

For agencies and marketplaces, I evaluate:

• Pricing: Is it upfront, or do you have to book a call to learn the cost?
• Link type: Do they clearly state whether links are dofollow, editorial, contextual, or something else?
• Domain quality: Are they transparent about metrics like DR, traffic, and spam scores?
• Delivery model: Do they outsource to freelancers, run a PBN, or actually pitch real editors?
• Reputation: What do real buyers say? Not testimonials on the vendor's site, but independent reviews and forum discussions.

For tactics and methods, I ask: Does this actually work for most sites, or is it a niche play that only works under specific conditions? I also flag risks — both legal and Google policy — because the two are not the same. A tactic can be legal but still get your site penalized.

I update reviews when vendors change their offerings or when new evidence surfaces. If a vendor that used to deliver junk starts doing honest work, I'll note it. If a reputable agency starts cutting corners, I'll flag that too.

Link Index is not a directory of 'safe' vendors. I don't certify anyone. I don't run a 'preferred partner' program. I don't sell link packages or consulting. If you see a review that seems harsh, it's because I think buyers deserve to know what they're getting into before they spend money.

I also don't cover every vendor or tactic. I focus on what I can verify. If a vendor refuses to share sample links or won't disclose their process, I either skip them or note the lack of transparency. If a tactic is too new to have reliable data, I say that too.

General: info@linkindex.us. If I've got a fact wrong, email with the page URL, the correction, and a source. I'll update the page and note the change when material.

I take corrections seriously. If a vendor claims I misrepresented their pricing or link quality, I'll review the evidence and update if warranted. I don't remove reviews just because someone asks, but I do fix errors.

For press or interview requests, use the same address. I'm happy to talk about link building trends, vendor evaluation, or the state of the industry — but I won't endorse products or services in exchange for coverage.