Google AdSense is one of the most popular ways to monetize a website, but it comes with strict rules. Violating these rules can lead to temporary suspension or even a permanent ban. Many website owners lose their accounts because of simple mistakes—sometimes without even realizing they did something wrong.
In this article, we’ll cover the 10 most common AdSense mistakes that could get you banned. We’ll also explain how to avoid them and what kind of content is prohibited by Google.
1. Clicking on Your Own Ads
This is one of the biggest mistakes and a guaranteed way to get banned. Clicking on your own ads, even “just to test,” is against Google’s policy.
How Google Detects It:
- IP tracking – Google knows your IP address and can detect clicks from the same location.
- Click pattern analysis – If the clicks come from the same user or look unnatural, it raises red flags.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
✔️ Never click your own ads under any circumstances.
✔️ Use Google’s Publisher Console to test your ads.
2. Encouraging Others to Click on Your Ads
Telling your friends, family, or visitors to “support the website by clicking ads” is a direct violation of AdSense policies.
Examples of Violations:
❌ Writing “Click here to help us!”
❌ Offering rewards for ad clicks
❌ Posting in online forums asking for clicks
How to Avoid This Mistake:
✔️ Let your ads generate clicks organically.
✔️ Avoid misleading CTA (call-to-action) phrases.
3. Using Automated Click Bots or Paid Traffic
Some people try to increase their AdSense revenue by using bots or click farms. Google’s algorithms are extremely advanced and can detect this type of fraud easily.
What Can Happen?
🚨 Google will ban your account permanently if caught.
🚨 You may lose all your earnings from fraudulent clicks.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
✔️ Use only organic and legitimate traffic sources.
✔️ Avoid shady “paid traffic” services that promise thousands of visitors.
4. Placing Ads on Prohibited Content
Google has a strict policy on the type of content that can display AdSense ads.
Prohibited Content Includes:
❌ Adult content or pornography
❌ Violence or hate speech
❌ Pirated software, hacking, or illegal downloads
❌ Misinformation or misleading content
How to Avoid This Mistake:
✔️ Always check Google’s AdSense Program Policies.
✔️ Use Google’s Ad Review Center to monitor ads on your site.
5. Too Many Ads on a Single Page
Google limits the number of ads you can display. Placing too many ads can lead to low-quality user experience and potential account suspension.
Recommended Ad Placement:
- 1-2 ads per article for better engagement
- Avoid placing ads too close to buttons or links
How to Avoid This Mistake:
✔️ Follow Google’s ad placement guidelines.
✔️ Prioritize user experience over ad revenue.
6. Poor Website Design and Navigation
If users can’t navigate your site properly, they are more likely to leave quickly, which can signal low-quality content to Google.
Common Website Issues:
❌ Slow page speed
❌ Too many pop-ups
❌ Hard-to-read text or bad mobile experience
How to Avoid This Mistake:
✔️ Use a mobile-friendly design.
✔️ Optimize your website speed using Google PageSpeed Insights.
7. Copyright Violations and Plagiarism
Publishing copied content is a serious violation. If Google detects duplicate articles, your AdSense account may be at risk.
How Google Detects Plagiarism:
- AI-based plagiarism detection
- Cross-checking with existing content
How to Avoid This Mistake:
✔️ Always create original content.
✔️ Use tools like Copyscape to check for plagiarism.
8. Misleading Ads or Fake Clickbait Titles
Some publishers try to trick users into clicking on ads by using misleading headlines. This practice is against AdSense policies.
Examples of Violations:
❌ “You won a free iPhone! Click here!”
❌ Fake news just to generate clicks
How to Avoid This Mistake:
✔️ Write honest and relevant content.
✔️ Avoid exaggerated claims in your headlines.
9. Invalid Traffic from Unnatural Sources
Google analyzes where your traffic comes from. If it detects suspicious traffic sources, your AdSense account may get flagged.
Suspicious Traffic Sources:
❌ Bot-generated traffic
❌ Pop-up traffic from spammy sites
How to Avoid This Mistake:
✔️ Use Google Analytics to track your traffic sources.
✔️ Avoid buying traffic from untrusted providers.
10. Ignoring Google’s Policy Updates
Google updates its AdSense policies regularly. If you fail to stay up-to-date, you might unknowingly violate a rule.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
✔️ Subscribe to Google AdSense updates.
✔️ Regularly review policy changes.
How to Check Your AdSense Status
If you’re worried about your account, Google provides tools to check your AdSense compliance:
🔹 Google AdSense Policy Center – Shows violations and warnings.
🔹 Google Search Console – Helps monitor site issues.
🔹 Google Analytics – Tracks your website traffic quality.