Google recently revealed in a blog post that it blocked or removed 3.1 billion bad advertisements, including COVID-19 related ads, globally in 2020 for violating its policies. It also restricted an additional 6.4 billion ads.
“In 2020, our policies and enforcement were put to the test as we collectively navigated a global pandemic, multiple elections around the world and the continued fight against bad actors looking for new ways to take advantage of people online,” said Scott Spencer, VP, ads privacy and safety, in a blog post.
He further added that “thousands of Googlers worked around the clock to deliver a safe experience for users, creators, publishers and advertisers. We know that when we make decisions through the lens of user safety, it will benefit the broader ecosystem. Preserving trust for advertisers and publishers helps their businesses succeed in the long term.”
Google revealed that it updated or added over 40 policies for advertisers and publishers. Speaking of coronavirus related ads, the tech giant blocked over 99 million Covid-related ads from serving throughout the year, including those for miracle cures, N95 masks due to supply shortages, as well as fake vaccine doses.
Also, this is the first year that Google is sharing information on ad restrictions which is a core part of its overall strategy. It says that restricting ads allows the firm to tailor its approach based on geography, local laws and our certification programs.
“We know that when we make decisions through the lens of user safety, it will benefit the broader ecosystem. Preserving trust for advertisers and publishers helps their businesses succeed in the long term,” states Google blog.
