If your Google Ads account has been suspended for violating the terms and conditions, and you’re unsure about the exact cause, it can be quite challenging. Since your ads had been running successfully for nearly a year before the suspension, it’s crucial to understand the specific violation and how to resolve the issue in order to get your account reinstated. This guide will walk you through the steps you can take to identify the issue, rectify it, and appeal the suspension effectively.
Step 1: Review the Suspension Notice and Emails
The first step in resolving the issue is to thoroughly review the suspension notice you received from Google Ads. Google typically provides a general reason for the suspension, though it may not always specify the exact violation. Here’s how to proceed:
- Check for an Email Notification: Google Ads typically sends an email to the account administrator or primary contact when the account is suspended. This email might contain details about the nature of the violation, such as a general reference to policy violations or a specific policy.
- Review the Suspension Message in Your Google Ads Account:
- Log into your Google Ads account and navigate to the Account Issues or Notifications section.
- Look for the suspension notice. If it’s available, Google will often provide a brief description or a link to relevant policies. However, it’s important to note that this message may not be specific enough to pinpoint the exact violation.
- Check for Specific Policy Violations: Google Ads offers a detailed list of policies that might cause account suspensions. These include:
- Misleading or Deceptive Content: Ads that make false claims or misrepresent services.
- Unacceptable Business Practices: Ads promoting fraudulent or unethical behavior.
- Malware or Harmful Software: Websites that lead to malicious software or phishing scams.
- Unclear Billing or Payment Information: Misleading pricing or unclear billing practices.
- Prohibited Content: Such as illegal products or services, counterfeit goods, or adult content.
Step 2: Review Google Ads Policies
It’s essential to have a clear understanding of Google’s advertising policies, particularly those relevant to your business type. You can find the Google Ads policies and guidelines here:
Here are a few common violations that lead to suspension:
- Misleading Claims: If your ads or landing pages contain exaggerated claims, such as promises of unrealistic results or outcomes (e.g., “guaranteed money-back” or “lose 20 pounds in one week”), these could lead to a suspension.
- Unclear Landing Page Content: If your landing pages are misleading or make it difficult for users to understand the offer, it could violate Google’s standards. For example, hidden fees, unclear terms of service, or deceptive information can trigger suspensions.
- Prohibited or Restricted Products: Certain products or services are not allowed to be advertised on Google Ads. These include counterfeit goods, illegal products, or services that could potentially harm users (e.g., gambling or adult content in some jurisdictions).
- Security Issues: Websites that contain malware, spyware, or any other form of harmful software can be flagged, resulting in account suspension.
Step 3: Examine Your Website and Ads
The next step is to conduct a thorough review of your website and ads. Since Google Ads suspensions are often tied to the content on the landing page or the ad itself, it’s crucial to ensure that everything is in compliance. Here are areas to focus on:
- Ad Copy:
- Ensure that your ads don’t contain exaggerated claims or misleading promises. Avoid clickbait, and make sure your ad accurately reflects the content users will find on the landing page.
- Landing Page Content:
- Verify that your landing page matches the claims made in your ad. If your ad promises a product or service, the landing page should clearly deliver on those promises without hiding any important information.
- Check that your website provides full transparency regarding the terms of service, privacy policies, and clear pricing.
- Ensure that there are no hidden fees, misleading offers, or lack of clarity regarding the product or service you’re advertising.
- Business Transparency:
- Your website should have clear contact information, including a physical address or phone number if required.
- Ensure that your return policies, payment terms, and other important details are easy for users to find and understand.
- Security Issues:
- Check if your website is free from malware, phishing attempts, or other forms of malicious software. Use tools like Google Safe Browsing to check your site for security issues.
- Ad Targeting and Keywords:
- Make sure your targeting settings are in compliance with Google Ads policies. For example, targeting users based on sensitive information (such as health conditions or financial status) might require special approval.
Step 4: Use the Google Ads Policy Center to Diagnose the Violation
Google Ads provides a Policy Center within your account where you can view any violations or disapprovals. If you suspect a specific issue but aren’t sure, here’s how you can use the Policy Center to gain insights:
- Access the Policy Center:
- In your Google Ads account, go to the Tools & Settings menu (wrench icon), and under Setup, select Policy Center.
- Review Policy Disapprovals:
- Check if Google has flagged any specific ads or keywords. You may find that certain ads or keywords have been disapproved due to violations of Google’s policies.
- Appeal or Fix Violations:
- Once you identify the policy violation, you can correct the issue on your website or in your ads. You’ll then be able to resubmit the ads or request a review.
Step 5: Submit a Review Request
Once you’ve identified and corrected the issue that caused the suspension, it’s time to submit a request for review:
- Go to the Account Issues Section: In your Google Ads account, find the Account Issues or Suspension Notification section.
- Request a Review: After addressing the issues, submit a request for Google Ads to review your account. In your appeal, explain the steps you’ve taken to correct the violation and ensure full compliance with Google’s policies.
- Be Detailed: When writing your appeal, be clear and specific about the changes you’ve made. Mention any relevant updates to your landing page, ad copy, business model, or security features.
Step 6: Wait for Google’s Response
After submitting your review request, Google Ads will typically respond within a few business days. If the suspension is lifted, you’ll be notified, and your ads will be reinstated. If Google determines that the issue still exists, you may receive additional instructions or clarifications.
Step 7: Prevent Future Suspensions
To avoid future suspensions, it’s important to:
- Regularly Review Ads and Landing Pages: Ensure ongoing compliance by regularly reviewing your ads and website to make sure that no new violations occur.
- Stay Updated on Google’s Policies: Policies can change over time, so it’s essential to stay updated on Google Ads policy changes. Regularly check the Google Ads Policy Center for any updates that might affect your business.
- Maintain Transparency: Always be clear and transparent in your advertising practices, especially around pricing, terms, and conditions.
Conclusion
A Google Ads account suspension for violating terms and conditions can be a complex issue, but by following these steps, you can identify the violation, resolve the issue, and appeal for reinstatement. By thoroughly reviewing your website, ads, and business practices, and by taking corrective action, you can restore your account and prevent future violations. Be proactive in staying compliant with Google Ads policies to ensure smooth and ongoing ad campaigns.