Google Ads Ban on All Spyware and Surveillance Services

The Google Ads ban of 2020 is here. Google Ads has been in the process of prohibiting the use of spyware and surveillance services in their updated policy changes to the Dishonest Behavior Policy Act.

What are Spyware and Surveillance Services?

Spyware and surveillance refers to tools such as apps, software programs, and other tracking programs that allow other people to secretly monitor the phone or computer activity of someone else. Not only is this an invasion of privacy, but it can also be extremely dangerous. As a result, Google has been in the process of eliminating the promotion of products and services that are created with the purpose to track or monitor texts, phone calls, or browsing history.

Google’s Enabling Dishonest Behavior Policy

Google already has a policy known as the Dishonest Behavior Policy, which doesn’t allow the promotion of products or services that are designed to enable dishonest behavior. But these new additions to the Dishonest Behavior Policy will even more so increase security and clarify the restrictions on advertising for spyware and surveillance technology.

Additionally, GPS trackers that have been created with the specific intention to spy or track someone, without their consent, will no longer be tolerated. Additionally, the use of secret cameras, audio recorders, dash cams, nanny cams, etc. can no longer be used with the purpose of spying.

Can Merchants Get Around This?

Unfortunately, it may be fairly easy to get around this new update. As a result of the policy stating that they are banning products that are “marketed with the express purpose of spying,” merchants can easily tweak their strategy to no longer include the “purpose of spyware” in their marketing efforts.

Fortunately, Google Ads is cracking down on their privacy settings and has been suspending accounts that violate these new policies. If you’re interested in safely advertising on Google Ads, don’t hesitate to reach out to the digital strategists at Kraus Marketing! Contact us today to get started!