First tools available: The Ad Library + Competitor Tracking
Click-baiting
Using misleading, sensational, or exaggerated headlines/content to trick users into clicking on ads.
Tags:bad practicesquality scoreuser experiencecompliancepenalties
Click-baiting is using misleading or exaggerated content to trick people into clicking your ads. It might get clicks, but it destroys trust and gets you penalized.
Examples of click-bait tactics:
- "You won't BELIEVE what happened next..."
- Fake countdown timers or scarcity
- Misleading thumbnails or images
- Promises your product can't deliver
- Sensationalized claims without proof
Why click-baiting backfires:
- High bounce rates: People click, see the bait-and-switch, and leave immediately
- Low conversions: Tricked visitors don't buy
- Platform penalties: Facebook, Google, and others actively demote clickbait
- Account bans: Repeated violations lead to suspension
- Brand damage: You become known as untrustworthy
How platforms detect it:
They measure what happens after the click. If people immediately bounce, don't engage, or report your content, algorithms learn that your ads are low quality. Your Quality Score drops and your costs go up.
The short-term clicks aren't worth the long-term damage. Focus on honest, compelling ads that deliver on their promise. You'll pay less and convert more.