I would suggest to rely on google webmaster tool only for back links check. The link:mydomain.com tag is no more useful, google has clearly stated in one of the blog that back links should be checked through Webmaster blog for actual results. A drop in back link could be real because of drop of temporary link source, google never drops links without a solid reason. Permanent links from good PR directories, articles, blogs and press release help a lot.
The backlinks for one of my sites have gone down although I keep on building them. Weird calculations from google?
How about reading the thread before posting and you would know what to do (or not do as it is in this case)
there must be a reason why certain sites have lots of backlink when using the tag, while certain sites have very little.. For example, DP has lots of backlink if you search Google by using the tag..
google was never accurate in displaying backlinks, their new Link checks in the webmaster tools doesnt even work for me, i suggest you use yahoos link directory as this one is more accurate in displaying your backlinks and leave the calculation to google
No one has been able to identify a reason other than the number and mix of sites in the small sample shown is random.
no changes on my site!still the same . . .too bad for your site! Don't get offset it will be back soon. . .