In case you weren't aware, BP has bought a bunch of Adwords (and Yahoo PPC) adds for keywords relating to the oil spil.

But what is really interesting is that it's being reported that BP has also bought the algorithm, giving BP top rankings in the SERPs for related kewyords.

If this is true, the implications are huge and it means Google can and does control rankings on a "human" level.

It also could be illegal, concealing sponsored links in the SERPs.

And it destoys a lot of Google's credibility.

Can anyone confirm if it's true that BP has bought rankings in the "organic" listings? If true, we'll have to come up with another word, as the results are anything but "organic" (natural) and based on quality and relevance, instead being ranked by profit.

And if true, IMO this will be the first real crack in Google's armor...And I think a potentially serious one.