Google Search Disruptions Reported as “Unusual Traffic” Issue Persists
– Users attempting to access Google Search are continuing to encounter disruptions, with a message indicating “unusual traffic from your computer network.” The issue, which has been intermittently reported since , surfaced again on , presenting itself as either a reCAPTCHA challenge or a temporary block preventing access to search results.
The problem, according to Google, stems from its automated systems detecting search patterns that deviate from typical human behavior. This often occurs when a network, including those utilizing Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), appears to be sending automated requests. Google’s immediate solution is to successfully complete the reCAPTCHA, which typically restores access.
However, for users repeatedly encountering the issue, a more thorough investigation may be necessary. Google’s support documentation points to several potential causes, with a significant focus on the possibility of malware compromising a user’s system. Malicious software installed on a computer can generate automated search queries without the user’s knowledge, triggering Google’s “unusual traffic” detection. This activity mimics patterns often associated with bots or malicious actors attempting to abuse Google’s search services.
Users are advised to scan their systems for malware using reputable security software and, if necessary, consult with an IT professional to ensure a thorough cleanup. Detecting malware can be difficult without specialized tools and expertise.
The issue isn’t limited to individual computers. Shared networks, such as those at schools or businesses, can also be a source of the problem. If others on the same network are sending automated searches to Google, it can trigger the “unusual traffic” message for all users on that network. In such cases, contacting a network administrator or IT professional is recommended.
VPNs are also frequently implicated in these disruptions. Google notes that some VPNs and tunnel services can cause all traffic to be blocked because they make it difficult to distinguish between legitimate and abusive traffic. Users experiencing issues while using a VPN may need to uninstall the VPN or contact their VPN provider for assistance. The problem can also occur with IPv6 tunnel services.
One user on Reddit reported experiencing the issue repeatedly on their desktop computer for over a year, even after using malwarebytes. They had to solve multiple reCAPTCHAs just to complete a single search.
Google also suggests that the problem could originate with an internet provider. If others using the same internet provider are sending automated searches, it could trigger the “unusual traffic” message for all their customers. In this scenario, contacting the internet provider is advised.
The specific IP address associated with the reported issue on , at , is 2403:6b80:6:100::6773:882, and the user was attempting to access a YouTube video with the URL https://www.youtube.com/watch%3Fv%3DRU__YS2np8Y.
While Google’s automated systems are designed to protect against abuse, the “unusual traffic” message can be frustrating for legitimate users. The company’s support documentation offers resources for resolving the issue, but the recurring nature of the problem suggests a continuing challenge in balancing security and accessibility.
