PageRank can be maniuplated too, but it doesnt mean that its a bad way to determine the search results. It means that you need to have extra layers of security

PageRank can be maniuplated too, but it doesnt mean that its a bad way to determine the search results. It means that you need to have extra layers of security to prevent and detect fraud. Another example would be automating clicks on a competitor's paid search results, to drive up their advertising costs. Some people have malicious intent, but just because it's possible doesn't mean the idea is flawed. But yeah, I'm not in favor of extra clutter on Google's search results which is why I'm advocating for the automatic, behind the scenes adjustments.