Google’s AI Overviews are now linking users back to more Google searches instead of directing them to external websites, raising concerns over traffic losses for publishers and Google’s growing dominance over online information.
Google’s AI Search Loophole Exposed
A recent discovery by tech enthusiast Sachin Patel has revealed that Google’s AI-generated search summaries now feature underlined links that, instead of leading users to publisher websites, redirect them to another Google search.
The only way to access external sources is through small, less prominent link icons. This shift could significantly impact content creators, news websites, and businesses that rely on organic search traffic.
Google AI Overview appears with an underline, and when clicked, it redirects with a new query.@rustybrick @gaganghotra_ @brodieseo pic.twitter.com/Y6Df6bfxgn
— Sachin Patel (@SachuPatel53124) March 17, 2025
Contradicting Its Own Promises?
Google has consistently claimed it values independent publishers and aims to drive traffic to them.
In a recent statement, the company emphasized that AI-generated search results would “prominently surface relevant links to help people find web pages and content they may not have discovered before.”
However, AI Overviews seem to be doing the opposite—keeping users within Google’s ecosystem, reducing click-through rates (CTR) to external websites, and consolidating search traffic under its control.
Who Benefits?
For Google, this approach opens the door to even more searches, greater engagement, and, ultimately, an increase in ad revenue. However, for publishers and businesses, it raises some concerns—like having fewer visitors, declining ad revenue, and a growing need to explore non-Google traffic sources.
This action could also trigger more antitrust scrutiny as regulators globally examine Google’s market dominance.
The change may result in a less diverse search experience for users. Instead of accessing a variety of sources, they are funneled through Google’s own system, potentially limiting exposure to different perspectives and original reporting.
What’s Next?
As pressure mounts, Google may face regulatory action or be forced to adjust its AI search strategy.
In the meantime, publishers and businesses need to adapt by investing in alternative traffic channels such as social media, newsletters, and competitor search engines like Bing and DuckDuckGo.
Key Takeaways
- Google AI Overviews now redirect users back to Google searches rather than external websites.
- This move contradicts Google’s previous promises of supporting independent publishers.
- Publishers are already seeing a decline in organic traffic due to AI-generated summaries.
- Google benefits by keeping users engaged within its own ecosystem, boosting its ad revenue.
- Businesses must explore alternative traffic strategies to reduce reliance on Google.
Dileep Thekkethil
AuthorDileep Thekkethil is the Director of Marketing at Stan Ventures, where he applies over 15 years of SEO and digital marketing expertise to drive growth and authority. A former journalist with six years of experience, he combines strategic storytelling with technical know-how to help brands navigate the shift toward AI-driven search and generative engines. Dileep is a strong advocate for Google’s EEAT standards, regularly sharing real-world use cases and scenarios to demystify complex marketing trends. He is an avid gardener of tropical fruits, a motor enthusiast, and a dedicated caretaker of his pair of cockatiels.