You are correct in your assumption that all the search engines are being bombarded. And, it might get worse. Check out what the .govs wants to do:

http://news.cnet.com/8301-13578_3-57552225-38/senate-bill-rewrite-lets-feds-read-your-e-mail-without-warrants/

Also, with Marissa Mayer at the helm, I'm thinking she will bring many of what she considers Google's strengths to Yahoo.