Source: Search Engine Roundtable by barry@rustybrick.com (Barry Schwartz). Read the original article
TL;DR Summary of Google Search Rank Tracking Tools Facing Accuracy Issues
**Most third-party Google Search tracking tools** have become unreliable since Google disabled the ability to display 100 search results per page. This change, alongside the ongoing **Google August 2025 spam update**, has caused significant discrepancies in rank tracking data. Experts suggest that Google’s move may be a defensive response to excessive scraping by AI tools, potentially signaling the end of traditional **SEO rank checkers**. Users should be cautious when interpreting ranking reports during this period.
Optimixed’s Overview: Challenges and Changes in Google Search Rank Tracking Tools
Disruption in Search Rank Tracking Accuracy
Recent modifications by Google have significantly impacted the functionality of many third-party search rank tracking tools. The removal of the &num=100 parameter, which previously allowed these tools to retrieve up to 100 search results per page, has led to incomplete or inaccurate data reporting.
Contributing Factors to Tracking Issues
- Google’s Change in Search Results Display: Limiting search results per page disrupts how tracking tools gather comprehensive ranking data.
- Ongoing August 2025 Spam Update: This update has introduced additional volatility and inconsistencies in Search Console data and rank tracking.
- Increased Scraping by AI Tools: The surge in AI-driven scraping activities may have prompted Google to clamp down on data access to protect its ecosystem.
Industry Reactions and Expert Insights
SEO professionals and tool developers acknowledge these challenges. For example, Tim Soulo from Ahrefs highlighted the probable discontinuation of keyword ranking data beyond the top 20 results, noting the implications for detailed SEO analysis. Others speculate that Google’s actions represent a strategic defense against excessive automated data collection, potentially reshaping how SEO rank tracking operates moving forward.
Recommendations for SEO Practitioners
- Exercise caution when interpreting third-party rank tracking data during this transitional phase.
- Monitor official Google updates closely to stay informed about further changes.
- Consider supplementing rank tracking with multiple data sources to mitigate inaccuracies.
