Google Search or Discover showing ads of fraudulent, fake or illegal products & services; users want better fact checking

In May 2020, Google announced that it would start showing ads in the Discover feed. These ads appear alongside organic content, with a small “Ad” label indicating that they are paid placements.

Unfortunately, users are unhappy with the advertisements that appear on their Discover feed or search.

Evidently, the Google Discover feed has become a popular spot for scammers to publish ads, and several users are frustrated by Google’s lack of control over it (1,2,3,4,5).

Most governments restrict the advertising of any false, fake, or illegal items. Such advertisements can be identified by their deceptive promises or exaggerated claims.

Google takes a firm stance on this and does not permit the placement of advertisements for dangerous items, counterfeit goods, or illegal products on its platform.

However, it does not appear to be the case, since some consumers have complained about being duped while purchasing products from websites promoted on Discover or Search.

As a result, users are questioning Google about why Discover is presenting ads for fraudulent or illegal items, and how such advertisements are permitted to be published in the first place.

why allow ads to mimic true web businesses, using similar words and descriptions to trick people to click on them. How can I complain to Google about this?
Source

Google search engine give adds of fake website and information…I lost my money bcz I trust you???
Source

This is an unusual occurrence that has perplexed some users as to how Google can advertise such content.

It is important to be vigilant when seeing advertisements online and to thoroughly examine any product or service that appears to be too good to be true.

Additionally, you should always report any such ads as this can help protect others from becoming victims of scams. That said we will update this story with the latest developments, so stay tuned.

Note: We have more such stories in our dedicated Google sections so be sure to follow them as well.

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