New research reveals a shift toward multi-step, multi-platform search behavior, led by Gen X.

NEW YORK, Feb. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Raptive, a top 10 global digital media company, today released the results of a comprehensive national survey revealing that Americans are increasingly seeking out multiple sources when searching for information online—signaling the end of the traditional search-and-click model.

The survey of more than 1,000 U.S. adults found that the era of relying on a single source of truth is fading. Only 8.8% of respondents say they accept the top search result—a number that continues to decline as people age. Instead, search has become a two-step process: nearly half (48.6%) are not satisfied with the first answer they find, and 37.2% now routinely verify information by checking multiple sources.

“We are witnessing a profound shift in the mechanics of discovery,” said Erika Leone, Raptive’s Executive Vice President of Marketing. “Search is no longer a simple ask and receive transaction. Trust is now built through multi-source verification—with people cross-checking information across various websites, AI tools, and social platforms before they’re satisfied.”

More Key Findings from the Raptive Search Report:

Gen X Leads the Verification Mindset: Gen X (ages 45–60) emerged as the most sophisticated and skeptical searchers. They are the most likely to use advanced filters (42.4%), the most likely to stick with known resources and brands (34.5%), and the most frequent “double checkers” (54.5%).
AI is a Secondary — but Mainstream — Search Tool: While only 4.4% of consumers name AI assistants as their primary search platform, AI has achieved mainstream adoption as a search aid. Nearly 60% of respondents use ChatGPT, and 51.7% use Google AI Mode.
AI Usage Splits by Generation: While ChatGPT leads in overall usage (peaking at 69.2% among Millennials), Google AI Mode has become the preferred tool for older audiences, overtaking ChatGPT among both Gen X (60.5%) and Boomers (53.8%).
Social Search Is Age Driven: Discovery remains heavily dictated by age. There is a 37-point gap between Gen Z and Boomers regarding TikTok searches (47.1% vs 9.7%), while Facebook remains the dominant information hub for those over 60 (65.6%).
Search is About Speed and Stickiness: “Quick facts” dominate intent for 51.7% of users. Notably, 52.5% prefer to stay on the platform where they searched rather than clicking out, a trend that is highest among Gen X (59.9%).

Credibility is the New SEO

For the 6,500+ independent creators and publishers Raptive represents, the data underscores a critical change in the digital ecosystem. While Google remains the front door for 71.5% of respondents, the fragmented nature of trust means audiences are looking for recognizable, authoritative voices to validate what they find.

The study indicates that this shift toward verification is increasingly overshadowing traditional SEO metrics; ranking in the top spot no longer guarantees consumer engagement if the source lacks established brand authority.

“The fact that people are increasingly cross-referencing proves that high-quality, recognizable brand names hold more power than ever in a fragmented market,” added Leone. “To remain visible and trusted, creators must be present across the entire ecosystem—from AI results to social discovery. Credibility is no longer just a bonus; it is a requirement for discovery.”

About Raptive

A top 10 online media property globally, Raptive is the world’s largest ad management and monetization platform for independent digital brands. The company provides the scale and infrastructure that high-growth publishers need to turn their content into enduring businesses, having paid out $3.6 billion to date. Ranking #1 in Food, Family, and Lifestyle, Raptive connects advertisers with passionate, diverse audiences through authentic, high-performing environments. Visit Raptive.com to learn how we are sustaining the open internet.

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