Prohibited topics in Facebook Ads

Advertising on Facebook is a powerful promotional tool, but the success of ad campaigns directly depends on adherence to the platform’s strict rules. Facebook’s advertising policies establish clear boundaries for content to protect users and maintain security. Violating these rules can result in ad rejection or account suspension. This article explores Facebook’s main prohibited topics, keyword restrictions, requirements for landing pages, and differences in rules across countries.

Key prohibitions in Facebook Ads: what cannot be advertised?

Before launching an ad, it’s crucial to know what content is off-limits on Facebook. The platform prohibits promoting content related to the following categories:

1. Dangerous products and services: – drugs, including medical, marijuana in countries where it is prohibited; – tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes; – weapons, ammunition, and fireworks.
2. Fraud and deception:      – false guarantees or promises of success;      – financial pyramids or get-rich-quick schemes.
3. Sensitive content:      – content promoting violence, hatred, or discrimination;      – adult content, including explicit imagery.
4. Medical services and products:      – unlicensed medications and supplements;      – treatments lacking scientific proof of efficacy.

These categories form the core list of prohibited topics on Facebook. However, rules may vary depending on jurisdiction.

Restrictions on keywords in advertising

Facebook employs advanced algorithms to analyze ad text. Certain words and phrases are automatically blocked. Here are some examples of keyword restrictions:

1. Personalization: avoid phrases that directly reference audience characteristics or problems, such as:      – “Are you struggling with weight?”      – “Do you have skin issues?”
2. Result promises: avoid guaranteeing outcomes or suggesting instant results, such as:      – “Lose weight in a week!”      – “100% pain relief guaranteed.”
3. Offensive or provocative content: swear words, slang, and demeaning language are strictly prohibited.

To avoid ad rejections, advertisers should use neutral language, refrain from making result-oriented claims, and thoroughly review ad text.

What can be advertised with restrictions in Facebook Ads?

Facebook allows the promotion of certain products and services under specific conditions. These restrictions often depend on local laws, age limits, and required permissions.

Categories with restrictions:

1. Alcohol: advertising is allowed but must comply with age restrictions.
2. Dating services: these can be promoted only with written approval from Facebook, excluding sexual content and targeting audiences aged 18 and above.
3. Gambling and simulated Gambling: promotion requires compliance with local laws and Facebook’s approval.
4. Medications and pharmacies: prescription medications can be advertised only by manufacturers or certified online pharmacies with Facebook’s permission. Non-prescription drugs must comply with local laws.
5. Subscription services: advertising is allowed only with clear terms and targeting users aged 18 and above.
6. Health and beauty: promotion of dietary supplements, cosmetic surgery, and addiction treatments is permitted only for audiences aged 18 and above. “Before and after” photos are not allowed.
7. Financial and Insurance products: transparency and age restrictions are required.
8. Cryptocurrency: products and services related to cryptocurrency require written approval from Facebook.
9. Politics and social issues: ads must comply with local laws and include Facebook’s approval.

Facebook’s advertising policies impose strict requirements for promoting specific products and services. These rules are designed to protect users and ensure platform security. Before launching a campaign, ensure that your product complies with these restrictions.

Requirements for landing pages

Facebook carefully analyzes user interaction with the page, focusing on the collection of sensitive data, prompts to download software to access content, or excessive intrusiveness. For example, pop-up windows can significantly reduce the chances of successful moderation.

The content of the site is also crucial. The advertised page must accurately match the ad’s content, and the information in the advertisement must be relevant and truthful.

Additionally, illegal products, services, and any references to them are strictly prohibited on the site. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in the rejection of the advertising campaign.

Therefore, it is essential not only to create a compliant ad but also to meet the requirements for the landing page (LP). Ads will be rejected if the LP violates Facebook’s advertising restrictions. Key requirements for websites include:

1. Transparency of information. The site must provide clear contact details and a privacy policy. Misleading information or hidden terms are prohibited.
2. Navigation. Aggressive pop-up windows are not allowed. The site should be user-friendly and mobile-optimized.
3. Site content. Promoting products or services that violate Facebook’s advertising policies is prohibited.
4. The presence of unacceptable content (violence, hate speech, discrimination) will lead to automatic ad blocking.

The platform automatically scans the site and blocks campaigns if it detects rule violations. To succeed with Facebook Ads, ensure your site fully complies with all requirements.

Reasons for Facebook Ads account suspension

Typically, violations of the above rules lead only to ad rejections. Facebook usually sends an email notification explaining the reasons, and issues can often be resolved by addressing the flagged concerns.

However, accounts may be completely suspended in cases of serious violations, such as attempting to promote prohibited products or services. Other common reasons include:

• logging into the ad account from an unfamiliar device or location;
• using someone else’s payment method;
• sudden increases in ad budgets.

It is important to note that Facebook provides ad impressions on credit, before deducting payments, so it is recommended to build a trustworthy relationship with the platform by gradually increasing your budget.

Additionally, Facebook strictly ensures that each ad account corresponds to only one advertiser, prohibiting the use of the same account by multiple individuals. Adhering to these rules is key to maintaining stable operations and running successful campaigns.

Regional restrictions in Facebook advertising

Advertising restrictions on Facebook may vary depending on jurisdiction. For instance:

1. European Union: special requirements for financial services ads and restrictions on content violating GDPR.
2. United States: strict limits on tobacco product advertising and regulations for medical ads.
3. Middle East: prohibition of gambling and alcohol-related content.

Before launching a campaign, be sure to familiarize yourself with local laws.

Tips for creating safe ad campaignsм

To avoid account blocks, follow these guidelines:

1. Familiarize yourself with Facebook’s advertising policies.
2. Ensure your content does not fall into prohibited categories.
3. Check ad copy for compliance with platform requirements.
4. Use only approved keywords.
5. Ensure your website aligns with Facebook’s rules.

But what if your ad gets blocked? If your ad is rejected, review the text, visuals, and landing page for compliance. Use the appeal tool to clarify your position. Keep in mind that violations may lead to a complete account ban. A distinctive feature of Facebook Ads is its two-step moderation process: first, ads are reviewed automatically using machine learning algorithms, and then manually. Errors can occur at both stages, but advertisers have the option to resubmit ads for moderation. However, ignoring rejected ads without correcting the issues can negatively affect the account’s reputation. Prohibited content on Facebook Ads may lead to account suspension, making it crucial to carefully follow the platform’s guidelines and rules.

By understanding what is not allowed to advertise on Facebook, you can avoid common mistakes and achieve your desired results without the risk of account blocking!