sylvainG-5

Problem:
The client is using WPML to translate their website into multiple languages and is facing issues with the visibility of their translated homepages on Google Search. The translated pages are not indexed by Google, and strange URL parameters like '?method=ical' and '?ref=balancegurus' are appearing, potentially affecting SEO.
Solution:
1. We recommended updating the WPML plugin and its add-ons to the latest version, 4.7.2, to ensure all recent bug fixes and improvements are applied. Instructions for updating can be found here: http://wpml.org/faq/install-wpml/
2. We suggested creating a Google Webmaster account, submitting the sitemap, and monitoring the URLs to check which are not indexed and why.
3. We identified that the 'Browser automatic redirect' feature might be causing issues with page indexing. We advised disabling this feature, which can be found under WPML → Languages. More information on how this setting affects Google indexing can be found here: https://wpml.org/documentation/getting-started-guide/language-setup/automatic-redirect-based-on-browser-language/how-browser-language-redirect-affects-google-indexing/
4. The URL parameter '?ref=balancegurus' appears to be linked to external promotions, suggesting an external or internal addition of these parameters.
5. We confirmed that keeping the SEO option 'Display alternative languages in the HEAD section' checked is beneficial.

If this solution does not resolve your issue or seems outdated, we highly recommend checking related known issues at https://wpml.org/known-issues/, verifying the version of the permanent fix, and confirming that you have installed the latest versions of themes and plugins. If further assistance is needed, please open a new support ticket at WPML support forum.