Semrush Outlines How It Is Validating Google Ranking Data Amid Poisoned Search Results
TLDR
Semrush published an update describing how it is addressing poisoned Google Search results, validating its ranking data, and investing in visibility for users.
Optimixed Overview
Optimixed's original report on this story.
In a SEMRUSH Blog post, Semrush explains its approach to "poisoned" Google Search results, the steps it is taking to validate its ranking data, and its investment in visibility for users. The post is framed as an update on the accuracy of the ranking data the company provides.
How we got here
- Oct 23Rank trackers explain how they detect and handle anomalous Google search results
Rank trackers outline their processes for identifying and managing instances of abnormal or suspect Google search results.
- Oct 22Ahrefs finds Google serves abnormal or stale pages to SEO data tools at scale
Ahrefs reports that Google serves abnormal or outdated pages to SEO data tools at rates between 5% and 20%, depending on the provider.
- Oct 14Google Accused of Poisoning Search Results for Rank Trackers
Search Engine Journal argues that Google's alleged poisoning of search results undermines the accuracy of rank-tracking tools that SEO professionals rely on.
- Aug 27Google's August 2026 spam update saw 82% more top-10 URLs drop below position 100 than normal
SE Ranking's analysis shows Google's August 2026 spam update caused 82% more top-10 URLs to drop beyond position 100 than periods without updates.