Google Warns AdSense Publishers Against Tampering With Ads

2011-07-04T09:07:00.000-07:00

Google has issued a stern warning to Web publishers that carry its ads after noticing that some of them are improperly altering ad formats, behavior and targeting.

These types of tampering not only violate the terms and conditions of the AdSense program but also often harm the efficacy of the ads, Google said on Friday in a blog post.

A common tampering practice involves placing AdSense ad code within an iframe, so that it can be displayed on another page, a practice Google forbids.

"Improperly iframed ads are a disservice to our advertisers since the ad itself can be obscured. Not only are they not viewable, these implementations can lead to accidental clicks if these hidden ads are placed in a location that users frequently click," wrote Cecelia Choi from the AdSense Policy team in the post.

A related improper use of AdSense ads is what Google calls "cross-domain iframing abuse," which allows sites to frame ads belonging to another site without the publisher's knowledge.

To make its policy clear in this respect, Google has modified the language in its AdSense policy related to this issue to read: "AdSense code may not be altered, nor may the standard behavior, targeting or delivery of ads be manipulated in any way that is not explicitly permitted by Google. This includes but is not limited to the following: clicking Google ads may not result in a new browser window being launched, nor may Google ads be placed in an iframe."

If a site requires the use of iframes for valid technical reasons, the publisher can request an authorized exception from Google. Otherwise, Google may cut off its ad serving connection to sites it finds misuing iframes with its ads. (PC World)

Earning money with Google AdSense

2011-07-04T09:05:00.001-07:00

MAINLA, Philippines -- Dear readers, pardon my short hiatus. I have been busy with blogging, full-time work and other concerns. It feels good to be taking a break and now I feel energized to share with you, as usual, little snippets of knowledge from the blogosphere.

Just recently, I attended a very informative webinar on Google AdSense which was held at the Asian Institute of Management and moderated by Google country consultant for the Philippines Aileen Apolo. The event was actually organized by Blog and Soul, a group dedicated to organizing worthwhile initiatives for the bloggers. Majority of those in the audience were active bloggers who didn't pass up the opportunity to interact via web with Google representatives based in California. Otherwise, you can read all about earning money from Google on the AdSense page.

For the AIM event, Ms. Nopparat Yokubon, Google's account manager for online partnerships, discussed "Insights Into Adsense Policies" and "How to Increase Your Adsense Performance. Meanwhile, Emanuele Brandi dealt with the more technical topics of "Data-Driven AdSense Optimizations" and "Website Optimization with AdSense Tools."

I have to say that in my six years or so of blogging, Google hasn't let me down. In fact, income derived from AdSense is now my bread and butter from blogging along with special projects that come my way every now and then. It is with powerhouse Google that one can have the real opportunity to earn tax-free dollars but it can be achieved only with hard work. As I said before, one shouldn't be misled by the impression that it's just a matter of pasting Google ads on your website because one can earn only when the blog has gained considerable traffic.

Bloggers should also take note of violations of Google content guidelines which could get one disapproved or banned for AdSense. Nudity, discussion of adult topics and even "lewd or provocative clothing" are not allowed. You are also violating Google policy if you use copyrighted material, whether it's TV, movies, music or games. If your site solely exists for SEO and has too many keywords and no original content, it can be flagged down as well.

Unfortunately, there have been a number of practicing bloggers whose sites have been prevented from displaying Google ads on their site. This is like a death knell and forces the blogger to rely on text links and secondary ad networks for sustenance. As I said, one can get banned for violations on content and implementing the Google ad codes on one's pages. Unknown to some, there is a dedicated Google team monitoring countless websites for invalid clicks and other forms of tampering. Definitely, we are not allowed to click our own ads or ask friends and family members to do so. Same with using pay-to-click programs and software cheats.

The Google experts at the webinar gave useful advice as well on the optimum way to place ads and using the right color palettes to attract readers' attention. For example, it is recommended that ads are placed above the fold and should blend with the blog post or content to appear less "intrusive." I have recently implemented the leaderboard format on my blog, with good results. I am certainly optimistic with AdSense and my wish is to build more websites that can bring in the cash. However, I don't have the luxury of time! (mb.com)

Google Adsense News

Google Warns AdSense Publishers Against Tampering With Ads

Earning money with Google AdSense