Google announced that as of June 2023, restrictions on coronavirus (COVID-19) related content under the Sensitive events policy will be lifted. This change is a direct response to the shifting landscape of the COVID-19 pandemic and reflects the progress made in dealing with the virus globally.
Under the updated policy, Shopping ads and free listings that contain COVID-19-related terms will no longer be restricted. In addition, approval via LegitScript or Project N95, which was previously required, will no longer be necessary. This move will open up more opportunities for vendors and advertisers to promote their products, improving the overall shopping experience and accessibility to essential COVID-19-related products for users.
While Google is easing restrictions on COVID-19-related content, they want to emphasize that all content will continue to be subject to all other Shopping policies. This includes Google’s Misrepresentation policy, which prohibits content that could harm users and the shopping ecosystem.
Google’s primary goal has always been maintaining a safe and trustworthy shopping environment. Therefore, they will continue to closely monitor the situation and enforce all policies to prevent misrepresentation or fraudulent practices.