Invalid traffic

Invalid traffic includes any clicks or impressions that may artificially inflate an advertiser's costs or a publisher's earnings. Invalid traffic covers intentionally fraudulent traffic as well as accidental clicks.

Invalid traffic includes, but is not limited to:

• Clicks or impressions generated by publishers clicking on their own live ads
• Repeated ad clicks or impressions generated by one or more users
• Publishers encouraging clicks on their ads (examples may include: any language encouraging users to click on ads; ad implementations that may cause a high volume of accidental clicks; and so on)
• Automated clicking tools or traffic sources, robots, or other deceptive software

Encouraging accidental clicks | Google Publisher Policies

Please note that clicks on Google ads must result from genuine user interest, and any method that artificially generates clicks or impressions is strictly prohibited by our program policies. If we observe high levels of invalid traffic on your account, we may suspend or disable the account to protect our advertisers and users. Additionally, if we are unable to verify the quality of your traffic, we may limit or disable your ad serving. Due to invalid traffic, you may also see a difference between your estimated and finalized earnings.

We understand that a third party may generate invalid traffic on your ads without your knowledge or permission. However, ultimately it is your responsibility as the publisher to ensure that the traffic on your ads is valid.

Learn how you can prevent invalid activity.

If you suspect invalid click traffic by a third party, use this form to report it to our traffic quality team.