On Wednesday 3/23/22, Google began notifying users of their popular Google Ads platform that they will begin pausing any ads that it deems to exploit or dismiss the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
This is marks another step the search engine giant has taken against disinformation regarding the war following its announced it would pause ads on Google properties and networks globally for advertisers based in Russia.
“We can confirm that we’re taking additional steps to clarify, and in some instances expand our monetization guidelines as they relate to the war in Ukraine,” Google spokesman Michael Aciman said in a comment to Reuters.
What This Means
Google, citing its “capitalization on sensitive events” policy will enact strict enforcement of this announced action specifically in regards to the way advertisers submit content about the conflict and if ads can appear on these types of pages.
For example, any content that “claims that imply victims are responsible for their own tragedy or similar instances of victim blaming, such as claims that Ukraine is committing genocide or deliberately attacking its own citizens,” would be demonetized or have their ads/channels paused.
It also will impact any YouTube channels commentating on the conflict, removing ad space from it and potentially permanently demonetizing it.
What Happens If You’re Paused?
Per Google’s policy, you will be given a 7 day warning prior to any action taken against your account.
This allows advertisers and content creators time to adjust their messaging to comply with the guidelines set by Google Ads.
Upon completion of any such adjustments, advertisers must submit them for manual review.
Here is more about Google’s policy on this from Google Support.