Top Reasons Ads Fail Moderation

When creating an ad, it must pass two levels of moderation: first by the Influ2 media buying team, then by the platform moderators where ads are placed. This dual review ensures all ads follow guidelines, delivering a clear and positive experience for users. Below are common reasons ads may be rejected, summarized by platform policies (Meta, Google, LinkedIn, Microsoft Advertising, Amazon Ads) to help create compliant, user-friendly ads.

If an ad doesn’t pass the moderation process, it’s usually for one of these common reasons:

1. Design

  • Non-Existent Functionality: Ads that feature elements like fake buttons, checkboxes, or search bars imply interactivity but don't function. This can mislead users and degrade the ad experience. See here and here. 

2. Landing Page

  • Non-Functional Landing Page: Landing pages with broken elements or those that prevent easy navigation are rejected. Directing to a PDF file or an unoptimized page (e.g., not mobile-friendly) also leads to rejection as it disrupts user experience. See here.

  • Missing Privacy Policy: Ads linking to pages without a visible Privacy Policy are declined. Transparency is essential for user trust. See here. 

  • Redirecting Landing Pages: Ads leading to pages with redirects create confusion and may raise concerns about legitimacy. See here.

  • Page Not Found (404 Error): Ads leading to a 404 error negatively impact user experience and harm brand credibility. See here.

  • Disruptive or Unexpected Landing Page Experiences: Ads that direct users to pages with intrusive pop-ups or unexpected elements are rejected to maintain a smooth user journey. See here.

3. General Ad Policy Violations

  • Monetary Compensation and Quick Investment Schemes: Ads promising quick monetary gains or easy investments are restricted to protect users from scams or predatory offers. See here.

  • Grammar and Profanity: Ads with grammatical errors or profanity are rejected to maintain professionalism and suitability for all audiences. See here and here.

  • References to Meta, Facebook, or Instagram: Misuse of Meta, Facebook, or Instagram branding or implying affiliation without permission is prohibited to ensure authenticity and avoid misleading users. See here.

  • Cryptocurrency Trading and Related Services: Ads promoting cryptocurrency trading require prior approval, as these financial services are high-risk. See here and here.

  • Gambling, Betting, and Gaming Ads: Ads related to gambling or gaming with real money require written permission due to the risks involved. See here and here.

  • Prohibited Content (Alcohol, Tobacco, Drugs, Weapons): Ads promoting restricted products like alcohol, tobacco, firearms, or drugs are generally declined to ensure a safe environment. See here for alcohol, tobacco, and weapons information.

  • Personal Attribute Violations: Ads that target users based on sensitive personal attributes (e.g., race, religion, gender, health status) are prohibited to protect privacy and maintain respect. See here.

  • Social Issues, Politics, or Elections: Ads related to political or social issues are restricted to maintain a neutral environment. See here.

  • Gift Certificates and Rewards as Clickbait: Ads offering rewards in exchange for engagement (clickbait) are not permitted as they can be misleading and manipulative. See here.

By understanding these guidelines, you can create compliant ads that deliver a positive, transparent, and trustworthy experience for all users.

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