On January 15th, Google mandated the use of JavaScript to access search pages, rendering many traditional SEO tools ineffective. This change, referred to as the 'Scriptwall,' has led to significant service disruptions in rank trackers and SERP data tools. Google's rationale, highlighting the low percentage of users disabling JavaScript, aims to enhance protection against automated scripts used for scraping and other forms of digital abuse. The move is not primarily aimed at SEO tools but is part of a broader strategy to combat threats from evolving technologies like LLMs.
On the night of January 15th, Google pulled the trigger on a major update to how it handles and tolerates automated scripts.
JavaScript execution is now mandatory to access any Google search page. Without it, you're met with what some users have dubbed the 'Scriptwall'.
Enabling JavaScript allows us to better protect our services and users from bots and evolving forms of abuse and spam.
According to the same spokesperson, on average, 'fewer than .1%' of searches on Google are done by users who disable JavaScript.
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