In its annual Ad Safety Report for 2024, Google revealed significant measures taken to ensure transparency and safety in digital advertising. The tech giant removed over 10.7 million unverified election ads globally, marking a 46% increase compared to 2023. This proactive step underscores Google’s commitment to combating misinformation and maintaining the integrity of election-related content.
India, a key focus during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, saw the suspension of 2.7 million ad accounts, the highest among all countries. These accounts were flagged for broader concerns, including scams and fraudulent activities. Google’s verification program, which now spans over 200 countries, played a pivotal role in identifying and removing unverified advertisers. The company also verified approximately 8,900 new election advertisers in 2024, ensuring compliance with its stringent guidelines.
Globally, Google blocked or removed a staggering 5.1 billion ads and suspended 39.2 million advertiser accounts last year. The majority of these accounts were suspended before they could serve any ads, reflecting the platform’s robust preemptive measures.
These actions highlight Google’s ongoing efforts to create a safer and more transparent digital advertising ecosystem, particularly during critical events like elections. The company’s initiatives aim to protect users from misleading content and uphold the credibility of online platforms.