GSC Logging Error Yielded Inflated Impressions Since May 2025

04/06/26
Source: Search Engine Roundtable by barry@rustybrick.com (Barry Schwartz). Read the original article

TL;DR Summary of Google Search Console Impression Logging Error Reveals Nearly a Year of Inaccurate Data

Google Search Console experienced a significant logging error affecting impression data since May 2025, causing inflated impression counts for nearly a year. This error, now being corrected, may explain previously observed unusual trends such as the “alligator trending” where impressions surged while clicks declined. Other performance metrics reportedly remained unaffected, though this remains somewhat unclear. Site owners are advised to export their historical data for accurate comparison once the fix is deployed.

Optimixed’s Overview: Understanding the Impact of Google Search Console’s Year-Long Impression Logging Error

Background of the Logging Issue

On April 3rd, Google disclosed a logging error affecting the accuracy of impression data in Google Search Console (GSC) dating back to May 2025. This issue caused inflated impression counts, which will be corrected over the coming weeks, potentially leading to a noticeable decrease in reported impressions.

The “Alligator Trending” Phenomenon Revisited

Within the SEO community, the term “alligator trending” refers to a pattern where impressions increase while clicks simultaneously drop, creating a graph shape resembling an alligator’s open mouth. This trend was widely attributed to AI Overviews in search results reducing click-throughs. However, with the newly revealed logging error, it’s possible that impression inflation contributed significantly to this effect.

  • The correction might “close the alligator’s mouth” by lowering impression counts closer to their true values.
  • Understanding this adjustment will provide clearer insights into actual user behavior and AI’s impact on search traffic.

Effects on Other Performance Metrics

Google stated that other key metrics such as clicks, click-through rate (CTR), and average position were unaffected, despite CTR depending on impressions and clicks. The exact mechanics behind this discrepancy are still uncertain, leaving room for further analysis once the corrections are fully implemented.

Recommended Actions for Site Owners

  • Export your GSC data immediately to preserve historical information before the fix is applied.
  • Utilize tools like the Search Console API and Analytics Edge to bypass GSC’s row limits for bulk data export.
  • Compare pre- and post-correction data to assess the true impact of the logging error on your site’s performance.

Staying proactive will enable webmasters and SEO professionals to adapt quickly and maintain accurate tracking of search performance metrics as Google resolves this long-standing error.