Google Cracks Down on Fraudulent Phone Numbers in Ads
▼ Summary
– Google Ads is updating its policy to block phone numbers linked to fraud or past policy violations starting December 10, 2025.
– Enforcement will ramp up over approximately 8 weeks after the policy takes effect.
– This change targets deceptive advertisers who use misleading phone numbers in sectors like tech support scams and lead generation.
– Advertisers must audit and verify their contact numbers to avoid ad disapprovals and campaign disruptions.
– Impacted advertisers will receive disapproval notices and can use Google’s help center for resolution guidance.
Google is implementing a significant update to its Destination requirements policy that will prohibit the use of phone numbers associated with fraudulent activity or previous policy breaches. This initiative forms part of a broader strategy to enhance user safety and combat misleading advertising across its platform. The new rule is scheduled to take effect on December 10, 2025.
Following the official start date, Google will gradually increase enforcement over an eight-week period. During this time, any advertisements featuring phone numbers identified as problematic will face disapproval. The policy specifically targets individuals and businesses that employ seemingly authentic contact details to deceive consumers or circumvent existing advertising safeguards.
This adjustment is particularly relevant for industries where misleading practices are prevalent, such as tech support scams and certain lead generation operations. Advertisers are strongly encouraged to conduct a thorough review of all contact information used in their campaigns. Ensuring every phone number is legitimate and properly verified is now essential to avoid potential disruptions.
Campaigns found in violation will receive official disapproval notifications from Google. Affected advertisers can consult the Google Ads Help Center for detailed instructions on how to resolve these issues and get their ads reinstated. The announcement of this policy revision was initially communicated by Anthony Higman, founder of ADSQUIRE, via the social media platform X.
This move underscores Google’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its advertising ecosystem. The company is placing greater emphasis on verifying not only the final landing pages but all components of an ad, including contact details. This reflects a wider industry push towards increased transparency and consumer protection in digital marketing.
(Source: Search Engine Land)
