The Google Search Partner Network (SPN) is allegedly placing ads for big brands and government agencies on undesirable websites that the brands have specifically blocked.
Adalytics researchers discovered Google search ads for major brands and government entities displayed on controversial sites, including those in sanctioned countries, adult content sites, and pirated content sites.
Impacted brands include Amazon, Apple, BMW, Home Depot, Lego, Meta, Microsoft, Paramount+, Samsung, Uber, nonprofits like the American Cancer Society and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and major media outlets like The Guardian, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal.
Some chocolate, soda, and alcohol brands had their ads on websites intended for children.
Brands blacklisting Breitbart had their ads displayed on the site, potentially funding controversial content.
Adalytics used open source data and web crawlers to investigate 7.2 million sites in the SPN.
Google doesn't provide detailed information on ad placements in the SPN.
Advertisers demand transparency from Google, seeking access to data confirming ad display locations.
SPN generates about $10.5 billion annually for Google; advertisers acknowledge brand safety standards.
Some search ads were displayed on sites in sanctioned countries, raising concerns about revenue sharing.