Introduction
Google Ads dishonest pricing policy 2025 is rolling out on October 28, 2025, and small businesses must prepare.
Google has updated its dishonest pricing practices policy to stop misleading ads that use fake “free” offers, hidden trial costs, inflated discounts, or bait-and-switch pricing.
This isn’t just a technical change. For advertisers, it means campaigns could face ad disapprovals, warnings, or account suspensions if they don’t follow the new rules.
In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what the Google Ads dishonest pricing policy 2025 means, who it affects, and how your business can stay compliant.
What Changed in Google Ads Dishonest Pricing Policy 2025
The update expands Google’s long-standing rule against misleading advertising. The Google Ads dishonest pricing policy 2025 specifically calls out:
Bait-and-switch tactics → Ads showing one price but charging another.
Hidden costs → “Free” offers that require paid add-ons or fees.
Misleading free trials → Free trials that auto-charge without clear disclosure.
Inflated discounts → Fake “before” prices that were never real.
Crisis exploitation → Inflating prices during shortages or emergencies.
Google’s focus is on truthful, accurate, and transparent ad pricing.
Who Does the Google Ads Dishonest Pricing Policy 2025 Affect?
While the policy applies to all advertisers, certain industries are at higher risk:
SaaS & Apps → Free trials with hidden billing conditions.
Ecommerce → Ads hiding shipping costs or showing inflated discounts.
Travel & Events → Base fares without required fees.
Service Providers → “From $5” ads that don’t reflect real minimum prices.
👉 If you’re a small business, the safest approach is to audit all ads before October 28, 2025.
Examples of Violations Under the Google Ads Dishonest Pricing Policy 2025
Non-Compliant Ads (Violations):
“Get your free trial now!” (but requires card info + auto-billing).
“Shoes only $20!” (checkout reveals mandatory $15 shipping fee).
“50% OFF today only!” (false inflated price history).
Compliant Ads (Safe):
“Start a 7-day free trial — card required, cancel anytime.”
“Shoes for $20 + $15 shipping.”
“Save $50 — originally $150, now $100” (with real proof of price history).
Why Google Ads Dishonest Pricing Policy 2025 Matters for Businesses
You may think this only benefits Google, but the reality is different.
Trust building → Honest ads bring higher customer satisfaction.
Better ROI → Accurate ads reduce bounce rates and wasted clicks.
Level playing field → SMBs no longer compete against misleading discount ads.
Compliance protection → Avoid account suspensions and legal risks.
For small businesses, the Google Ads dishonest pricing policy 2025 is an opportunity to stand out with clear, customer-first ads.
How to Stay Compliant With the Policy
Here’s a checklist to stay safe:
Show full prices → Always include mandatory fees in your ad copy or landing page.
Disclose free trial terms → Be upfront about card requirements and renewal conditions.
Be truthful with discounts → Only promote genuine price reductions.
Match ad and landing page → Ensure consistency between what you advertise and what users see.
Keep documentation → Save screenshots and records of your pricing.
How the Policy Can Help Small Businesses
Instead of viewing the Google Ads dishonest pricing policy 2025 as a restriction, think of it as an advantage:
Honest businesses will waste less budget on unqualified clicks.
Transparent ads can improve CTRs and conversion rates.
Google rewards compliant ads with higher Quality Scores and better placements.
Customers are more likely to trust brands that are upfront.
👉 Long-term, this policy can make ads more profitable for small businesses.
Quick Action Plan Before October 28
Audit all campaigns for hidden costs or unclear pricing.
Update ad copy to include full price transparency.
Train your team on Google Ads dishonest pricing policy 2025.
Test revised ads before the rollout date.
Monitor disapprovals in Google Ads after October 28.
FAQs
Your ad may be disapproved, and repeated violations could lead to account suspension.
You can, but only if you clearly disclose conditions (credit card, renewal terms).
Yes. Compliant ads improve trust, which boosts CTR and Quality Score over time.
Conclusion
The Google Ads dishonest pricing policy 2025 is a reminder that shortcuts don’t last.
For small businesses, the safest path is transparency:
Show real prices, not inflated ones.
Be honest about free trials and renewal terms.
Keep ads and landing pages consistent.
Businesses that adapt now will not only avoid penalties but also gain trust, improve ROI, and build long-term growth.
👉 Audit your ads today. October 28 is just around the corner.
