You log into Google Ads and see that your account is suspended for a policy related to phishing, malicious software or compromised sites. All your campaigns have stopped.
This is more serious than a single disapproved ad, but it can be fixed. Here is how.
Key takeaways
- Suspensions apply to the whole account, not just individual ads.
- They are often linked to a Safe Browsing phishing or malware detection on your landing domain.
- Clear the Safe Browsing flag in Search Console before you appeal.
- Write one complete, specific appeal; repeated vague appeals can make reinstatement harder.
Why accounts get suspended for phishing
Google may suspend an account when it believes ads lead to pages that collect information deceptively or harm visitors. Common triggers:
- A landing domain flagged by Google Safe Browsing for phishing or malware.
- A compromised website serving a phishing kit or malicious redirect.
- Landing pages that imitate other brands, payment providers or official bodies.
- Repeated ad disapprovals for compromised sites or malicious software that were not resolved.
If you only see individual ads disapproved, read our guide on Google Ads disapproved for malicious software instead.
Step 1: Check Safe Browsing and Search Console
Open Search Console for every domain in your ads and check Security Issues. Also scan each domain on VirusTotal. If there is a detection, that is almost certainly what triggered the suspension.
Step 2: Fix the root cause
Remove phishing files or malicious code, close the entry point and make legitimate pages clearly identifiable: company name, address, contact details and privacy policy. Avoid imitating other brands. Our fast-track phishing guide covers this in detail.
Step 3: Clear the Safe Browsing flag
Request a review in Search Console and wait until Google confirms the domain is clean. Appealing the suspension while the flag is still active almost always fails.
Step 4: Submit a strong appeal
Use the appeal option shown on the suspension notice in Google Ads. A strong appeal:
- States the specific cause you found (for example, a hacked folder or a misleading page).
- Explains exactly what you removed or changed and when.
- Describes the security measures you put in place to prevent recurrence.
- Confirms that Search Console shows no remaining security issues.
After reinstatement
Monitor your landing domains continuously. A new Safe Browsing or vendor flag can lead to repeat suspensions, which are harder to reverse. See how to stop your site getting blacklisted again.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a suspension appeal take?
Often a few working days, sometimes longer. Google notifies you by email and in the account.
Can I create a new account instead?
No. Creating new accounts to get around a suspension is itself a policy violation and usually leads to further suspensions.
What if my site was never compromised?
Explain why the flagged page is legitimate, clear any Safe Browsing listing as a false positive and include that evidence in your appeal.
Do other vendors matter for Google Ads?
Google mainly relies on its own data, but clearing other vendors protects the traffic you pay for once ads resume.