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What are the most reliable ways to detect website blocks before scraping?
One method I use is checking for specific response codes, like 403 or 429. If you start getting these more frequently, it’s usually a sign that blocks are imminent. Some sites even have custom messages in their headers to warn you.
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4 Replies
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- I monitor response times and status codes. A sudden drop in response speed or consistent 404s can indicate soft blocks. Regular logging of response patterns helps catch these changes early.
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Also, watch for CAPTCHA pages or unexpected redirects. If I start getting CAPTCHA requests too often, I back off or switch proxies. Tools like Scrapy have middleware that can auto-detect CAPTCHA pages and respond accordingly.
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Try loading pages in a headless browser to check for JavaScript traps. If the site redirects to a ‘we’re watching you’ page or doesn’t render correctly, you may be blocked. Simple checks like these can help.
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I often include honeypot URL detection in my scrapers. Some sites place these hidden links to catch bots, so if my scraper lands on one, I stop the session immediately.
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