Google Search Disruptions Continue, Users Report “Unusual Traffic” Blocks
Google Search users are once again encountering disruptions, with reports surfacing on February 16, 2026, of a message stating, “Our systems have detected unusual traffic from your computer network.” The issue, which manifested for some users attempting to access a YouTube video (, at 18:50:34 UTC), prevents access to search results and often presents a reCAPTCHA challenge as a solution.
The problem isn’t new. Google has been grappling with this issue since at least April 23, 2021, with recurring instances of blocked access. According to Google’s support documentation, the disruptions stem from automated systems identifying search patterns that deviate from typical human behavior. These patterns are often triggered by network activity, including traffic originating from Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).
The immediate fix offered by Google is to successfully complete the reCAPTCHA, which typically restores access. However, persistent issues suggest deeper underlying causes. Google’s support materials point to the possibility of malware compromising a user’s system. Malicious software can generate automated search queries without the user’s knowledge, mimicking the activity of bots or malicious actors attempting to abuse Google’s search services.
The proliferation of infostealers, such as Lumma Stealer, highlights the growing threat of malware capable of generating automated traffic, as reported by Microsoft. These programs can be difficult to detect without specialized security software and expertise. Users are advised to scan their systems for malware and consult with IT professionals for thorough cleanup. The presence of malware can be insidious, operating without the user’s awareness.
Beyond malware, the use of VPNs is frequently implicated in these disruptions. Google’s systems may flag traffic originating from VPNs as suspicious, particularly if other users on the same VPN are engaged in automated searches. This can also occur with IPv6 tunnel services, and in some cases, VPNs and tunnel services can cause all traffic to be blocked because they make it difficult for Google to differentiate between legitimate and abusive activity.
The message displayed to users explains that the block will expire shortly after the suspicious requests stop. It also suggests that the issue might be caused by someone who previously used the same IP address engaging in activity that violated Google’s Terms of Service. Users sharing a network connection are advised to seek assistance from their administrator, as another computer using the same IP address may be responsible.
For those consistently encountering the “unusual traffic” message, Google recommends learning how to detect and remove malware. Contacting a network administrator or IT professional can also help locate the source of the problem, especially if the issue stems from activity within a shared network, such as a school or business. Alternatively, users can try uninstalling their VPN or contacting their VPN provider for assistance.
In some cases, the problem may extend beyond an individual user or VPN. Google’s support documentation acknowledges that the issue could be caused by others using the same internet provider sending automated searches. Users experiencing persistent problems are advised to contact their internet provider for further investigation.
The specific IP address associated with the reported disruption on , was identified as 2403:6b80:6:100::6773:882.
