YouTube Allows Misinformation Ads despite Policy Violations

• 03 Apr 2024

Research reveals YouTube approved nearly 50 misleading ads on Indian elections, sparking concerns over electoral integrity.

Key Points

• Approval of Misleading Ads: YouTube greenlit ads containing false information about Indian elections, including misleading statements on voting procedures and religious groups' involvement in fraud.
• Withdrawal before Publication: All 48 ads were withdrawn by senders for safety reasons after approval by YouTube.
• YouTube's Removal Efforts: YouTube removed over 2.25 million videos from India in late 2023, but still faces criticism for allowing misinformation ads.
• Concerns about Electoral Integrity: Access Now and Global Witness raise concerns about YouTube's role in ensuring free and fair elections amidst tech platforms' promises to safeguard electoral integrity.
• Google's Response: Google claims none of the ads ran on its systems and emphasizes its enforcement process to block or remove ads violating policies, even after initial approval.