If you’ve arrived here, it’s maybe because Google Ads has suspended your account or you just wanted to be thorough with Google Ads Malicious or Unwanted Software policies before starting your advertising campaign. 

For both of these situations, you are undoubtedly in the right place. 

What is malicious or unwanted software?

Malware or unwanted software is an executable file/software created with the intent to deceive or negatively affect the user experience by causing harm to their computer, mobile device, or its users. 

Here are some examples to help you get a better understanding of both the terms: 

Examples of malicious software: 

• Viruses, worms, Trojan horses, ransomware, rootkits, keyloggers, spyware, and other harmful applications or apps. 

Examples of unwanted software: 

• Software with deceptive consequences on the installation 
• Terms of Service or End User License Agreement are absent.
• Making changes to the user’s system without consent. 
• Making it difficult for users to disable or delete the software.
• Neglecting to use Google API appropriately.

Troubleshooting Malicious and Unwanted software ads

So, to avoid such malicious and unwanted activities, Google Ads actively keeps a strict check by identifying malicious and unwanted software in its ad network. It makes sure the ads in its network are useful, varied, relevant, and safe for the users. 

And if an advertiser tries to abuse or circumvent the ad network, they end up facing harsh consequences like account suspension or ad disapproval. 

Here are some ways to avoid suspensions by troubleshooting your ads if you think they might be violating Google Ads policies. 

• Check the status of your site in the Google Search Console 
• Remove any malicious/unwanted software and make sure your ad is not violating any Google Unwanted software policy.
• Edit and submit. 

After editing your ad, Google Ads review all the contents of your ad will be reviewed, and if you pass your ad will automatically start running. 

Fixing Account suspension due to Malicious or Unwanted Software 

The good part is, under the violation of Malicious or Unwanted software policy, even if your account attracts suspension, it will not be done immediately. Instead, a warning 7 days prior to the suspension will be sent explaining the remedial action that can be taken for you. 

But in case you missed the notification and now your account is suspended, here are two ways to fix your account: 

Using troubleshooting tools

• Click the link > Sign in to your Google Ads account. 
• A step-by-step troubleshoot will guide you through your account suspension-related issues. 

Submitting an Appeal

If you need help right away, the Google Ads appeal team is the place to go!

Take note of the following points when going forward with an Appeal. 

• Make sure all your information is correct and in order.
• Mention your case clearly so that the team helps you in the best way possible. 

Hope this helped your case. To understand more about Malicious or Unwanted software terms and policies you can give these a read: Malware and Unwanted Software, Advertising Policies, Unwanted software policy. 

In case you want further help our Google Partner Team can help you restore your Google Ads account and If you have any further questions regarding Google Ads Malicious or Unwanted Software, you can contact our Google ads suspended team.