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Display & Video 360 users must comply with this Google Ads policy. Visit the Display & Video 360 help center for additional restrictions.
To protect the rights of copyright holders and to comply with local and global copyright laws, we don’t allow ads to use copyrighted content in a way that infringes copyright. If you’re legally allowed to use the content, you’ll need to be certified by Google to use this content in your ads. If you think someone is using your copyrighted material without permission, you can submit a copyright complaint.
On this page
- Copyrighted content
- About DMCA complaints
- Apply for copyright certification
- Options to fix Copyrights issues
Copyrighted content
The following are not allowed:
Unauthorized sites or software that capture, copy, or provide access to copyrighted content
Examples: Sites, software, or toolbars that enable unauthorized streaming, sharing, copying, or downloading of copyrighted content including, but not limited to audio guides, e-books, anime, games, movies, mp3 ringtones, music, software, TV shows, works by independent artists, record labels, or other content creators
Examples: Sites that offer unauthorized physical copies of copyrighted CDs, DVDs, or software
Examples: Products or services such as Blu-ray or DVD rippers, burners, and converters that provide access to copyrighted content by stripping or bypassing DRM technology on audio, video, e-books, or software
About DMCA complaints
The Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) is a United States copyright law that protects copyright holders from online infringement. Learn more about the Digital Millennium Copyright Act.
If Google receives a DMCA notification about the content of your ad or ad’s destination, the ad may be disapproved.
What are DMCA notifications?
DMCA notifications are claims of copyright infringement submitted by copyright holders under the DMCA’s notice-and-take-down procedures. Google reviews and responds to these claims in accordance with its policies.
Who can file a DMCA notification?
Only the copyright owner or an authorized representative can file a DMCA notification.
What does a DMCA notification look like?
View an example of a DMCA notification.
Can I resubmit my ads if they were disapproved due to DMCA violations?
To resubmit your ads for approval, you must first file a counter-notification that complies with the requirements of the DMCA. You can do this by filling out the DMCA counter-notification form.
- If you falsely claim that your content does not infringe copyright, you may be liable for damages (including costs and attorneys' fees).
- If you're unsure whether certain material infringes the copyrights of others, it is suggested that you consult an attorney before proceeding.
- If you resubmit your ads without a valid DMCA counter-notification, it may result in the termination of your account under our repeat infringement policy.
Will Google disapprove my ads if copyright legal proceedings are ongoing?
If you submit a valid DMCA counter-notification and the copyright claimant initiates legal proceedings against you, your ads will remain disapproved until a court order has been issued ruling in your favor.
Apply for copyright certification
You must be certified by Google to use copyrighted content in your ads on Google Ads and Display & Video 360. If you believe that you're legally authorized to advertise copyrighted content, submit an application using the appropriate certification form:
- Google Ads: Copyright Documentation Web Form
- Display & Video 360: DV360 YouTube: Copyright Documentation Web Form
If you're an agency applying on behalf of an advertiser, send documentation detailing your relationship with the advertiser or license holder. Make sure to provide all of the requested information to avoid delays in processing your application.
Options to fix Copyright issues
- Send us your copyright documentation. If you believe that you're legally authorized to advertise copyrighted content, fill out an application to be certified. We'll review it and inform you if we can run your ads. Note that each domain requires a separate copyright certification, including country-specific domains, such as copyright.com vs. copyright.co.uk. One certification covers all countries served by the same domain.
- Remove any copyrighted content from the ad’s destination. If that’s not possible, update the ad’s destination to one that complies with our copyright policy.
- Edit the ad. Remove any copyrighted content. If your ad complies with the policy but you've updated its destination, make some minor edits and resubmit it. This will trigger a review of both the ad and its destination. Most ads are reviewed within one1 business day, though some can take longer if they need a more complex review.
If you aren't able to fix these violations or choose not to, remove your ad to help prevent account suspension for having multiple disapproved ads.
Keep in mind that this information only applies to issues with Copyrights. To authorize Google Ads accounts to use trademarked terms or report trademark violations, use the Google Ads Trademark Troubleshooter.
Need help?
If you have questions about our policies, contact Google Ads Support.