What are Google Ads policies?

Google Ads has a set of policies that advertisers must adhere to in order to maintain a safe, user-friendly, and effective advertising ecosystem. These policies help ensure that ads are relevant, trustworthy, and respectful. Here's an overview of the key areas covered by Google Ads policies:

1. Prohibited Content
Illegal Products or Services: Ads that promote illegal goods, services, or activities are prohibited.

Dangerous Products or Services: Ads promoting products or services that can cause harm, such as explosives, drugs, or weapons, are banned.

Hate Speech, Violence, and Discrimination: Ads must not contain or promote hate speech, violence, or any form of discrimination.

Adult Content: Ads promoting explicit or adult content, including pornography or sexual services, are not allowed.

Shocking or Sensational Content: Ads cannot contain overly shocking, sensational, or inappropriate content designed to provoke extreme reactions.

2. Prohibited Practices
Misleading Content: Ads should not mislead users or provide false information.

Deceptive Behavior: Ads that deceive users, such as misleading clickbait or malicious software, are against Google Ads policies.

Malware or Unwanted Software: Ads that link to websites containing malware, phishing schemes, or any software that disrupts user experience are prohibited.

Unauthorized Transactions: Ads for counterfeit goods or unauthorized transactions (like financial fraud) are strictly banned.

3. Restricted Content
Alcohol: Advertising for alcohol is allowed in some regions, but it must comply with local laws and age restrictions.

Gambling and Games: Ads related to gambling, betting, and gaming must meet strict regulations and often need certification from local authorities.

Health-related Products: Ads for certain health-related products (like weight loss products, prescription drugs) must comply with regulations and avoid misleading claims.

Financial Products and Services: Ads for financial services (loans, credit cards, etc.) are subject to regulatory restrictions to protect consumers from misleading offers.

Political Content: Ads related to political campaigns and candidates are allowed, but they must adhere to strict transparency and local regulations.

4. Editorial and Technical Requirements
Ad Copy and Design: Ads must be clear, relevant, and easy to understand. Google requires that ads and landing pages provide accurate information and avoid excessive punctuation or misleading claims.

Landing Pages: The content on the landing page must align with the ad content and provide a positive user experience. Landing pages must not contain deceptive or irrelevant content.

Ad Format Requirements: Google Ads has technical guidelines for ad formats (text, images, video, etc.). For example, ads must not automatically play sound or videos without user interaction.

5. Ad Targeting
Sensitive Audiences: Ads must avoid targeting sensitive groups in an exploitative or harmful way. For example, targeting children or vulnerable users with inappropriate content is prohibited.

Geo-targeting: Advertisers must ensure that ads are targeted correctly to specific geographic regions, especially when local laws govern certain products or services.

6. Compliance with Local Laws and Regulations
Ads must comply with the specific laws and regulations of the country or region where they are being shown. Google Ads adjusts its policies to fit local requirements for things like age restrictions, product regulations, and prohibited content.

7. Account Suspension
Advertisers who violate Google Ads policies may face suspension of their accounts, removal of ads, or restrictions on their ability to advertise.