If you’ve ever had an advert rejected on Meta (Facebook and Instagram), you know how frustrating it can be.

One minute, you’re excited to launch a campaign, and the next, you’re being slammed with a rejection notice.

But don’t worry, it is not personal. You’re not being witch-hunted or targeted.

If you have also not ran an ad yet, but you want to eventually.

It is important that you read till the very end.

Meta is quite strict about what gets shown to it’s billions of users.

(As they should)

This is why i’ll walk you through why Meta takes down ads and how to avoid it so your campaigns can run smoothly.

1. Misleading or Deceptive Content

Meta is not a fan of clickbait.

Ads that overpromise or mislead users will get flagged. Whether it’s exaggerated claims like “Lose 10 pounds in 2 days!” or baiting headlines that don’t match the content, these ads don’t fly.

How to avoid it: Be honest. Focus on the real benefits of your product or service without going overboard. If your ad says “quick results,” make sure it’s realistic.

2. Sensational or Inappropriate Imagery

Ads featuring nudity, implied adult content, or violent and sensational images will definitely get rejected. Even something as mild as a revealing outfit in a lingerie ad might be flagged.

How to avoid it: Keep your visuals tasteful and professional. Meta wants a family-friendly vibe, so stay clear of overly sexual or shocking images.

3. Targeting Personal Attributes

You can’t directly reference someone’s personal traits like age, race, religion, or health conditions in ads. Meta’s rules are designed to protect users from feeling targeted in uncomfortable ways.

How to avoid it: Don’t make it personal. Instead of saying “Are you over 40 and struggling with back pain?” try something more general, like “Support for back pain relief.” Keep it inclusive!

4. Illegal or Dangerous Products

It goes without saying, but anything promoting illegal or dangerous products like drugs, weapons, or counterfeit goods is an automatic no-go. Even ads that dance around the legality of certain products can get pulled down.

How to avoid it: Stick to promoting things that are legal and ethical. If your product is in a gray area (like supplements or alcohol), double-check Meta’s advertising guidelines first.

5. Sensitive Issues and Controversial Content

Meta doesn’t like ads that stir up unnecessary drama. Ads related to controversial social or political issues, or that exploit sensitive topics like death or tragedy, can get blocked.

How to avoid it: Stay clear of content that feels divisive or exploitative. Focus on positive, solution-oriented messaging that doesn’t provoke or upset your audience.

In Conclusion

Meta’s ad policies might feel restrictive, but they’re in place for good reason, to protect users and keep the platform trustworthy.

Need help with your ad campaigns?

We’re here to guide you through Meta’s guidelines and create ads that convert.

Contact us today for expert support in digital marketing and strategy.