Misrepresentation or Miscommunication? Why Google Flags Legitimate Businesses

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As a legitimate business owner, if you launch your ads, follow all guidelines, and still face an unexpected suspension, you may need to consult with a specialist. Google can flag your business due to duplicate listings or ownership conflicts. Under the Google Ads misrepresentation policy, even minor errors can make your business appear misleading. Here is why misrepresentation or miscommunication can cause Google to flag legitimate businesses:

Inconsistent Details

When you create your Google Ads account, you provide details such as your business name and contact information. If this information is inconsistent with what can be found on your website, it can raise a red flag for Google. This may happen if you recently changed your business name or contact information but did not update it.

Mismatches in your business name, address, or phone number (NAP) across platforms trigger automated flags. Google’s systems look for NAP inconsistencies across your website and ad account. Such discrepancies can appear deceptive, risking a violation under the Google Ads misrepresentation policy.

Align your NAP details on all platforms. Update your website, Google Business Profile, Merchant Center, and ad account settings for consistency. Verify your NAP details match the information on your physical store, business cards, and other marketing materials.

Suspicious Payments

The misrepresentation policy prohibits using suspicious payment methods to promote ads. This includes using stolen credit cards, or fake or fraudulent payment information. Your business builds trust with customers when you use legitimate payment methods. Using invalid payment methods can result in your ads being suspended.

If your business uses third-party services, confirm their credibility and reliability. Failing to understand this policy can result in repercussions, including account suspension or termination. Billing errors, declined payments, or mismatched billing details often trigger review or suspension.

Google treats repeated payment failures or declined charges as suspicious. Use consistent, verified payment methods linked to your business. Avoid virtual cards or frequent method changes, as these also conflict with the Google Ads misrepresentation policy and raise automated alarms.

Verification Gaps

Incomplete or delayed identity or business verification often leads to account suspension. Google may pause accounts when documents don’t match account details. Your proof of address or business registration must match the entity name on your account. Submit correct, up-to-date documents to avoid suspension. Use a company site with verified contact information on every page, or you may not pass the site verification step. Provide clear and transparent information about how your business operates.

Misleading Landing Pages

A business needs a strong web presence to attract more customers. The landing page is the first point of contact where you greet customers and introduce your business to them. A misleading landing page occurs when the webpage shows something completely different from what the business sells. This might confuse your customers and harm what your brand represents. Google rates your landing page based on how closely its content matches the content of your ad.

To avoid creating a misleading landing page, accurately represent your products or services in the ad. Explain what your company does by using plain words that are easy to understand. Do not create headlines that overstate the truth about your products or services.

Stay Compliant With the Google Ads Misrepresentation Policy

Partnering with a digital marketing agency gives you access to professionals who understand the policy inside and out. They can identify the issues putting your account at risk and help you stay compliant. With expert support, you save time, protect your ad performance, and reduce the risk of suspensions. Contact a Google Ads specialist to learn more about the ads misrepresentation policy and how to stay compliant.


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