What Are Google Policy Errors in Google Ads?

Google Ads is one of the most powerful advertising platforms, but it comes with a comprehensive set of policies to ensure a secure, user-friendly, and compliant environment for advertisers and users. When an ad, keyword, or landing page violates these guidelines, a Google policy error occurs. These errors can lead to ad disapprovals, campaign limitations, or even account suspensions if left unresolved.

This blog will guide you through the types of Google policy errors, how to identify them, and effective strategies to fix and avoid them.

Types of Google Policy Errors

1. Prohibited Content
   Google prohibits ads that promote harmful, illegal, or inappropriate content.
   • Examples: Counterfeit goods, drugs, weapons, or adult content.
   • Impact: Ads with prohibited content are immediately disapproved.
   • Solution: Review Google’s Prohibited Content Policies and ensure your ads comply.
2. Prohibited Practices
   These errors occur when ads engage in dishonest, harmful, or manipulative practices.
   • Examples: Misleading claims, phishing scams, or promoting services that violate user privacy.
   • Impact: Can lead to account suspension.
   • Solution: Avoid overpromising or misleading users in your ad copy and landing pages.
3. Restricted Content
   Some categories like gambling, healthcare, and alcohol are allowed but come with restrictions based on age, location, and certifications.
   • Examples: Ads for betting services in regions where gambling is illegal.
   • Impact: Ads may be restricted or disapproved.
   • Solution: Ensure you meet the specific requirements and obtain necessary certifications.
4. Destination Issues
   Errors related to the landing page or destination URL.
   • Examples: Broken links, slow-loading pages, or malware-infected sites.
   • Impact: Ads are disapproved, and campaigns stop running.
   • Solution: Test URLs to ensure functionality and security.
5. Misrepresentation
   Ads or landing pages that provide insufficient information, misleading offers, or unclear terms.
   • Examples: Hidden fees, unclear subscription terms.
   • Impact: Ads are disapproved until corrected.
   • Solution: Be transparent in your ad content and provide clear information on your website.
6. Trademark Violations
   Using trademarked terms in ads without proper authorization.
   • Examples: Including a competitor’s brand name in your ad text.
   • Impact: Ads may be blocked from showing.
   • Solution: Obtain permission from the trademark owner or avoid using trademarked terms.
7. Policy Violations Due to Ad Format
   Errors caused by improper ad design or technical issues.
   • Examples: Overuse of caps, excessive punctuation, or misleading headlines.
   • Impact: Ads may fail to appear in search results.
   • Solution: Follow the ad creation guidelines for format and style.

How to Identify Google Policy Errors

Google provides multiple ways to identify policy issues:

1. Google Ads Dashboard
   • Navigate to the Ads & Extensions tab.
   • Look for statuses like “Disapproved” or “Eligible (Limited).”
   • Click on the error message for detailed insights.
2. Policy Manager
   • Use the Policy Manager tool to view all policy-related issues in one place.
3. Google Ad Preview and Diagnosis Tool
   • Identify specific reasons for ad disapproval and simulate ad performance.
4. Email Notifications
   • Google sends alerts about disapproved ads or policy violations.
5. Google Ads Support
   • Reach out to support for clarity on complex issues.

How to Fix Google Policy Errors

1. Understand the Error
   Read Google’s explanation of the issue and determine the specific violation.
2. Edit the Ad or Landing Page
   Make necessary changes to comply with Google’s guidelines. For example:
   • Update ad text to remove prohibited phrases.
   • Fix destination issues, like broken links or non-compliant content.
3. Submit for Review
   Once corrections are made, request a review from Google:
   • Go to the Ads & Extensions tab.
   • Click on the disapproved ad and select “Resubmit.”
4. Seek Expert Assistance
   If errors persist, consult a digital marketing expert or use Google Ads support.

Preventing Google Policy Errors

1. Stay Updated
   Regularly review Google Ads policies to stay informed about updates.
2. Audit Campaigns
   Periodically review your ads, keywords, and landing pages for compliance.
3. Use Policy-Compliant Tools
   Tools like Google Ads Editor can help detect and correct issues before they escalate.
4. Be Transparent
   Ensure all ad claims are accurate, and landing pages provide clear, truthful information.
5. Test Ads Before Launching
   Use Google’s Ad Preview and Diagnosis Tool to check for potential issues.

Why Adherence to Policies Matters

• Improved Ad Performance: Compliant ads are more likely to appear prominently, driving higher clicks and conversions.
• Cost Savings: Avoiding policy violations prevents wasted ad spend on disapproved campaigns.
• Reputation Management: Adhering to policies builds trust with Google and your audience.

Conclusion

Google policy errors can disrupt your advertising efforts, but they are preventable and fixable with the right knowledge and practices. By understanding common policy errors, utilizing tools to identify them, and adhering to Google’s guidelines, you can maintain a smooth and effective advertising strategy.

Need Help Managing Google Ads?

If you’re struggling with Google policy errors or need expert assistance with your campaigns, Digital Kishore is here to help! We specialize in creating compliant, high-performance ads that deliver results. Contact us today to level up your Google Ads strategy.