Invalid clicks: Definition

Clicks on ads that aren’t the result of genuine user interest, including intentionally fraudulent traffic and accidental or duplicate clicks.

Google relies on a multi-layered approach to protect advertisers from invalid traffic. Learn more about Managing invalid traffic.

Here are a few examples of what Google might consider to be invalid clicks:

  • Manual clicks meant to increase your advertising costs or to increase profits for website owners hosting your ads
  • Clicks by automated clicking tools, robots, or other deceptive software
  • Accidental clicks that provide no value to the advertiser, such as the second click of a double-click

You won’t be charged for invalid clicks or impressions as they provide little or no value. If you’re concerned about invalid clicks on your ads, you can address the issues yourself. Learn more about Managing invalid traffic.

Note: In rare cases, a click may be deemed invalid and removed, but the conversion occurring from that click may not necessarily be. This can occasionally result in conversions being higher than clicks.

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