Google Tightens Enforcement on Misleading Local Ads

Google has tightened enforcement across local advertising, advertiser verification, and misleading ad design, raising the risk of suspensions for inaccurate or deceptive practices. Recent policy clarifications signal stricter scrutiny of business identity, contact details, and ad presentation within the Google Ads ecosystem.

What Has Changed in Google’s Enforcement Approach

Google is intensifying efforts to reduce fraud, misrepresentation, and deceptive ad experiences across local and lead-driven campaigns.

According to recent policy updates, even small inconsistencies in advertiser verification or ad presentation may now trigger disapprovals or suspensions.

This shift reflects Google’s broader push toward identity transparency, consumer protection, and trust-based advertising.

False Information in Advertiser Verification Now Triggers Suspension

Google has updated its Circumventing Systems policy to explicitly include advertiser verification abuse.

Submitting false, misleading, or inaccurate information during verification is now treated as an intentional attempt to bypass compliance systems.

Accounts found violating this requirement may face immediate suspension, without extended remediation windows.

Stricter Controls on Fraud-Linked Phone Numbers

Google is also tightening Destination Requirements related to phone numbers used in ads.

Phone numbers associated with fraud, past policy violations, or deceptive behavior may now lead to ad disapprovals or broader account impact.

This update directly affects local services, lead generation, and industries historically targeted by scam activity.

Misleading Ad Design Faces Tighter Restrictions

Google has clarified its Misrepresentation – Misleading Ad Design policy to address deceptive creative formats.

Image ads using standalone or overly prominent buttons without clear context are now restricted.

Ads that make it difficult for users to recognize they are interacting with an advertisement are likely to be disapproved during enforcement reviews.

Alignment With Google Search Spam Policies

Google Ads enforcement is increasingly aligned with Google Search spam policies.

Accounts or destinations receiving manual actions in Search may see automatic ad disapprovals.

This cross-system alignment reduces loopholes and increases enforcement consistency across paid and organic channels.

Impact on Advertisers and Local Businesses

These updates significantly raise the stakes for compliance.

Increased account suspensions have already been reported, especially in cases involving misrepresentation or unverifiable business details.

Advertisers may also experience limited ad serving, reduced impressions, or prolonged recovery timelines if violations occur.

Why Legitimate Businesses Are Also Affected

Google uses AI-driven detection systems supported by human Trust & Safety teams.

While designed to stop fraud, these systems can sometimes flag legitimate advertisers due to unclear websites, mismatched documentation, or inconsistent contact information.

As enforcement tightens, tolerance for ambiguity continues to shrink.

What Advertisers Should Do Now

• Verify all business details submitted during advertiser verification
  
  
• Audit phone numbers used across ads and landing pages
  
  
• Remove misleading claims, unclear CTAs, or deceptive design elements
  
  
• Monitor Google Search Console for manual actions
  
  
• Maintain consistent branding, contact information, and disclosures
  
  

Preventive compliance is now far safer than post-suspension recovery.

FAQs: Google Ads Enforcement and Misleading Local Ads

Does Google suspend accounts for small verification errors?

Yes. Recent clarifications indicate even minor inaccuracies may be treated as intentional misrepresentation.

Are phone numbers now a compliance risk in Google Ads?

Yes. Numbers linked to fraud or past violations can trigger ad disapprovals or account action.

What qualifies as misleading ad design?

Ads that obscure their commercial intent or use disproportionate buttons without context may be restricted.

Can Search policy violations affect Google Ads?

Yes. Manual actions in Search can now automatically impact ad approvals.

Final Takeaway

Google’s latest enforcement updates reflect a zero-tolerance stance on misinformation, deceptive design, and unverifiable business identity.

Advertisers operating local or lead-driven campaigns must now prioritize accuracy, transparency, and compliance across every touchpoint.

Digilogy tracks these industry developments closely as part of ongoing digital advertising analysis. For daily updates and insights, visit the Digilogy News page.