Google will update its Misleading Ad Design policy on January 23, 2025 to combat deceptive practices in advertising. The change will restrict ads that feature stand alone buttons in image ads which lack clear context, making it difficult for users to recognize they are interacting with an advertisement. Ads that use buttons disproportionately, making them more prominent than other content, will also be restricted.
That being said, Google wrote:
“On January 23, 2025, the Google Ads Misrepresentation – Misleading Ad Design policy will be updated to clarify that ads that make it difficult for the user to understand they are interacting with an ad by using standalone buttons in image ads that lack clear context explaining their function, or whose prominence relative to the surrounding ad content is disproportionate, are restricted.
We will begin enforcing the policy clarification on January 23, 2025, with full enforcement ramping up over approximately 8 weeks.”
Key Takeaways
- Ads with unclear or overly prominent buttons will be restricted.
- Full enforcement starts in January 2025.
- Warnings will be issued before account suspension.
Advertisers should review their ads now to ensure compliance before the new rules take effect.
