Google’s 2025 Misrepresentation Policy Update: Essential Compliance Guidance for Shopping Ads and Free Listings
Google has clarified its Misrepresentation policy for Shopping Ads and free listings, providing detailed examples and guidance for merchants on compliance, delivery, and returns. This enhanced documentation promotes transparency, helps prevent policy violations, and supports advertisers in maintaining trust with their customers.
What’s New in the Policy Clarification
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Google’s recent update to its Misrepresentation policy does not change enforcement, but provides expanded examples for merchants. The aim is to give businesses a clearer roadmap to compliance and reduce common misunderstandings
Expanded Examples: Non-Delivery and Returns
The policy now includes more explicit examples pertaining to issues such as non-delivery of products and inoperable return or refund processes. Advertisers must reliably deliver products as promised and make sure their refund or return mechanisms work as claimed. Failure in these areas may be flagged as misrepresentation under Google’s updated guidance.
Best Practices for Policy Compliance
Google’s support documentation now offers advice on how to maintain compliance. Merchants are encouraged to:
- Accurately represent product availability and shipping timeframes
- Ensure functional and transparent refund/return processes
- Regularly review ads and listings for policy alignment.
Appeals Process Explained
Alongside these examples, Google has provided more details on how merchants can appeal policy decisions if their ads or listings are flagged. The documentation walks advertisers through the necessary steps to request reviews and submit supporting information for a swift resolution.
Why Merchants Must Act
With expectations clarified, merchants have an opportunity to proactively adjust practices—especially around delivery and returns—minimizing the risk of account suspension and building credibility with customers. Regularly referencing Google’s official documentation and seeking updates will be crucial for ongoing compliance.
Documentation and Further Guidance
To explore the complete and updated Misrepresentation policy, including guidance for both Shopping ads and free product listings, refer to the official Google documentation: