Google Blocks 5.1 Billion Ads in 2024 to Combat AI-Powered Scams
April 16, 2025
To enhance safety enforcement, Google implemented over 50 enhancements to its large language models (LLMs), improving the speed and effectiveness of investigations into advertising abuses.
The updated Misrepresentation policy includes stronger measures against advertisers promoting scams, reflecting Google's proactive approach to evolving threats.
These efforts come in response to a global rise in online threats, especially in regions like Africa, where users face significant exposure to fraudulent advertising.
Google collaborates with regulatory bodies and industry partners, including the Global Anti-Scam Alliance, to address these evolving online threats.
In 2024, the company blocked 5.1 billion ads and suspended over 39.2 million advertiser accounts due to a surge in AI-powered scams.
Google has released its latest Ads Safety Report, highlighting its commitment to maintaining a healthy ad ecosystem and combating bad ads and accounts.
The company emphasizes transparency in its suspension processes and has developed an appeal mechanism that includes human reviews to address advertiser confusion.
The report includes detailed charts that visually illustrate the scale of enforcement actions taken by Google, showcasing the effectiveness of its strategies.
A dedicated team of over 100 experts was established to analyze scams and enhance countermeasures, resulting in the permanent suspension of more than 700,000 accounts promoting scams.
The increase in enforcement was primarily driven by the threat of AI-generated content and impersonation scams, particularly in the investment and cryptocurrency sectors.
Google's commitment to ad safety is critical as malvertising remains a significant vector for malware, with fraudulent ads misleading users.
Google's enforcement efforts are crucial for protecting small businesses and content creators in Africa's growing digital economy, which relies heavily on user trust.
Summary based on 16 sources
Get a daily email with more Tech stories
Sources

Forbes • Apr 16, 2025
Google Boots 39 Million Accounts Using AI — What You Need To Know
TechCrunch • Apr 16, 2025
Google used AI to suspend over 39M ad accounts suspected of fraud
Mashable • Apr 16, 2025
Google's AI models shut down 39 million fraudulent advertisers
Ars Technica • Apr 16, 2025
Google suspended 39.2 million malicious advertisers in 2024 thanks to AI