Web scraping refers to extracting data from websites automatically through code instead of manual copying and pasting. When done responsibly and in moderation, web scraping public information can be useful for research purposes. However, scraping sensitive data or overloading servers is unethical.
Google aims to provide the best search experience while respecting website owners' preferences. Scraping Google excessively can lower quality of service for other users. Google also wants to protect proprietary information.
What Google Allows
Google permits scraping moderate amounts of public, non-sensitive information from search results. For example, researchers may scrape a few hundred results to analyze search patterns. The Terms of Service require not overloading Google's systems and respecting robots.txt rules.
Google search results are provided for temporary personal use and should not be republished or systematically collected without permission. Scraping Google itself typically does not impact indexed websites. Still, respect website owners' wishes.
Scraping Responsibly
When web scraping Google or any website, here are some tips:
Web scrapers should include their contact information in case website owners want to contact them. Ultimately, scrape ethically by considering website owners, following laws and terms of service, not overloading systems, respecting opt-outs, and keeping data private.
Responsible, legal web scraping can provide useful data for research and innovation. By understanding and respecting website policies, scrapers and Google can coexist harmoniously.