Google announced this week that it will effectively reject ads for surveillance technology starting next month, by updating its policy.
The revised Google Advertising Promoting Unethical Behavior Policy, which would “prohibit the promotion of goods or services that are advertised or targeted for the express purpose of tracking or controlling another person or their activities without their authorisation,” will be implemented beginning August 11, 2020, the Internet giant announced.
Google must enforce the policy internationally in an attempt to combat spyware ads and other forms of surveillance.
Such technology, explains the company, involves using spyware, malware, and other means to monitor a person’s messages, phone calls, or browsing habits, or keep an eye on their whereabouts using GPS trackers.
In addition, Google’s revised policy would also strike the sale of surveillance devices such as audio recorders, cameras, dash cams and nanny cams that are “marketed for the purpose of clear spying.”
“It does not include (a) private investigative services or (b) products or services designed to track or control parents’ underage children,” explains the company.
If any violations of the new policy are found, Google will initially issue a alert, and delete offending accounts within 7 days.
Advertisers are told, before August 11, to delete any advertisements that might result in a policy breach.
