Google Investigating Issue With All Links In Google Search Are Previously Visited

06/17/25
Source: Search Engine Roundtable by barry@rustybrick.com (Barry Schwartz). Read the original article

TL;DR Summary of Google Search Links Incorrectly Marked as Visited

**Google** is currently investigating a **bug** causing search results to appear as **previously visited links** even when users have not clicked them. This issue has been reported by multiple users across **Reddit threads** and highlighted by **Tech Issues Today**. A Google support representative confirmed awareness and is working on identifying the root cause. The problem does not affect all users and may involve either **Google Search** or browser functionality.

Optimixed’s Overview: Understanding the Recent Google Search Link Visit Status Glitch

Issue Background

Users have recently noticed that links within Google search results are displaying with the purple color typically reserved for previously visited links, despite no interaction occurring. This visual anomaly has raised concerns among searchers and webmasters alike.

Details and User Reports

  • Multiple Reddit threads have documented complaints regarding the incorrect link visit status.
  • Tech Issues Today was among the first to report and consolidate these user complaints.
  • Affected users report inconsistent behavior, indicating the issue is not universal.

Google’s Response and Investigation

A Google support representative acknowledged the problem publicly, stating:

“Thanks for flagging this. We’re aware of the issue you’re seeing. We’re currently investigating it and appreciate your patience while we work on identifying the root cause.”

This confirms that Google is actively working to resolve the glitch affecting link coloring in search results.

Potential Causes and Impact

  • The root cause remains unclear, with possibilities including a Google Search bug or browser-specific issues.
  • The problem affects user experience by potentially confusing users about which links they have actually visited.
  • SEO professionals and casual users alike should monitor updates to ensure accurate link behavior returns.