Many SEO experts have noticed a significant decrease in the number of links reported within Google Search Console compared to previous months. This issue has been brought to light by various individuals, including Leonard Brahm, who reported a 30% drop in the number of links for one of the sites he manages. Complaints have surfaced on forums such as WebmasterWorld and Google Webmaster Help Forums, with some SEOs expressing concern about the impact of this decrease in reported links on their rankings.
Some of the complaints raised include questions about whether Google is removing valid links or simply not indexing certain content, causing the links to disappear. Concerns about the possibility of technical errors or penalties affecting rankings have also been mentioned by SEOs who have noticed a drop in the number of backlinks shown in Google Search Console. This issue seems to be widespread, as multiple individuals have reported decreases in the number of links for their websites.
This drop in reported links is not a new issue, as a similar incident was reported in June 2023, where Google confirmed an error with the link report. Despite discrepancies in the reported number of links, SEO experts continue to track and monitor their link profiles to ensure the accuracy of the data provided by Google Search Console.
Over the years, the number of links reported in Google Search Console has fluctuated, as shown in screenshots from various time periods. In August 2018, the reported number of links stood at 2.5 million, while in October 2019, it had dropped to 1.2 million. The most recent screenshots show a decreasing trend in the number of reported links, indicating a potential issue with how Google processes and displays link data.
SEO professionals are advised to closely monitor their link profiles and investigate any significant drops in reported links to ensure the integrity of their backlink data. While Google Search Console remains a valuable tool for monitoring website performance, discrepancies in reported data highlight the importance of cross-referencing with other tools and conducting regular audits to maintain a comprehensive understanding of a website’s link profile.
In conclusion, the recent decrease in reported links in Google Search Console has raised concerns among SEO experts about the accuracy and reliability of the data provided. As Google continues to refine its algorithms and data processing methods, it is essential for website owners and SEO professionals to remain vigilant and proactive in monitoring and managing their link profiles to mitigate any potential issues that may impact their rankings.
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