Google provides translated versions of the Advertising Policies Help Center, though they're not meant to change the content of the policies. The English version is the official language used to enforce Google Ads policies. To view this article in a different language, use the language dropdown at the bottom of the page.
Display & Video 360 users must comply with this Google Ads policy. Visit the Display & Video 360 help center for additional restrictions.
Google Ads values honesty and fairness and doesnโt allow the promotion of products or services that are designed to enable dishonest behavior. Below are some examples of what to avoid in your ads. Learn more about What happens if you violate our policies.
In this article
The following is not allowed:
Products or services that help users mislead others
Examples (non-exhaustive):
- Creation of fake or false documents like passports or diplomas
- Selling numbers like credit privacy numbers that mimic the appearance of national identification numbers
- Services that broker the inclusion of clients as authorized users on credit lines
- Aids to pass drug tests
- Services or products that enable academic dishonesty, like essay or thesis generators
- Selling falsified user activity in the form of invalid clicks, reviews, or social media endorsements
- VPNs marketed to circumvent geo-restrictions
Examples (non-exhaustive):
- Hacking services, including game enhancements and cheat softwares
- Stealing cable
- Radar jammers
- Changing traffic signals
- Phone or wire-tapping
Examples(non-exhaustive):
- Spyware and technology used for intimate partner surveillance like spyware or malware that enable a user to monitor texts, phone calls, or browsing history
- GPS trackers specifically marketed to spy on or to track someone without their consent
- Promotion of surveillance equipment like cameras, audio recorders, dash cams, nanny cams marketed specifically for spying
This doesn't include private investigation services or products or services designed for parents to track or monitor their underage children.
Best practices
This non-exhaustive list of best practices outlines what you should avoid in your ad text and creatives to help avoid issues related to this policy.
- Don't use imagery that implies your product can be used for dishonest purposes. For example, an image of a student looking over their shoulder during an exam while using your product would not be allowed.
- Don't use language that suggests your product can be used to cheat or deceive. For example, avoid phrases like โfool the systemโ or โget away with anythingโ.
Options to fix
If this policy is affecting your ad, review your options to fix below.
Edit your ads to comply with this policy
- Go to Ads within the Campaigns
menu.
- Hover over the ad or asset and select Edit.
- Edit the ad or asset so that it complies with the policy.
- Select Save.
Your ad will be automatically reviewed again. Check the adโs status in the โAds & assetsโ page for updates.
Learn more about how to Fix an ad with policy violations.
Appeal policy decision
If you believe thereโs been an error and that you havenโt violated Google Ads' policies, appeal the policy decision directly from your Google Ads account to request a review. If the review determines that your ads are compliant, they can run again. If you aren't able to fix these violations or choose not to, remove your ad to help prevent your account from becoming suspended in the future for repeated policy violations.
Need help?
If you have questions about our policies, contact Google Ads Support.