{"id":22841,"date":"2025-03-05T08:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-03-05T08:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/?p=22841"},"modified":"2025-03-03T20:42:01","modified_gmt":"2025-03-03T20:42:01","slug":"ad-fraud-prevention","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/ad-fraud-prevention","title":{"rendered":"Ad Fraud Prevention: 10 Proven Ways to Stop Fake Clicks from Draining Your Budget"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Ad fraud is one of the biggest headaches in <a href=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/online-advertising-for-digital-products\/\">digital advertising<\/a>. It\u2019s basically a dirty game where fraudsters manipulate performance metrics, hike up ad costs, and drain marketing budgets\u2014all without delivering real results. In 2022 alone, ad fraud losses hit a whopping $81 billion, and by the end of 2023, that number is expected to blow past $100 billion. Crazy, right? And here\u2019s the real kicker\u2014almost 47% of global internet traffic comes from bots, not real humans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, how do you stop throwing money at fake clicks and impressions?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this blog, we\u2019re diving deep into ad fraud prevention strategies that will help you secure your campaigns, outsmart fraudsters, and make sure your ad spend actually works for you. Whether you\u2019re a marketer, advertiser, or business owner, these insights will help you <a href=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/maximize-roi-with-google-ads\/\">maximize ROI<\/a> and keep your ads reaching real people\u2014not bots. Let\u2019s get into it<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_85 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/ad-fraud-prevention\/#What_is_Ad_Fraud\" >What is Ad Fraud?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/ad-fraud-prevention\/#How_to_Fight_Back_with_Ad_Fraud_Prevention_Strategies\" >How to Fight Back with Ad Fraud Prevention Strategies?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/ad-fraud-prevention\/#Why_Should_You_Care_About_Ad_Fraud\" >Why Should You Care About Ad Fraud?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/ad-fraud-prevention\/#What_are_Some_Top_Strategies_Ad_Fraud_Prevention_to_Stop_Fake_Clicks_from_Draining_Your_Budget\" >What are Some Top Strategies Ad Fraud Prevention to Stop Fake Clicks from Draining Your Budget?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/ad-fraud-prevention\/#1_STICK_WITH_TRUSTED_AD_NETWORKS_AND_PUBLISHERS\" >#1. STICK WITH TRUSTED AD NETWORKS AND PUBLISHERS<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/ad-fraud-prevention\/#2_USE_SMART_TECH_TO_OUTSMART_AD_FRAUD\" >#2. USE SMART TECH TO OUTSMART AD FRAUD<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/ad-fraud-prevention\/#_3_OWN_YOUR_DATA%E2%80%94DITCH_THE_RISKY_THIRD-PARTY_STUFF\" ># 3. OWN YOUR DATA\u2014DITCH THE RISKY THIRD-PARTY STUFF<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/ad-fraud-prevention\/#4_SET_CRYSTAL-CLEAR_KPIS_STAY_ON_HIGH_ALERT\" >#4. SET CRYSTAL-CLEAR KPIS &amp; STAY ON HIGH ALERT<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/ad-fraud-prevention\/#5_LOCK_DOWN_YOUR_ADS_WITH_ADSTXT\" >#5. LOCK DOWN YOUR ADS WITH ADS.TXT<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/ad-fraud-prevention\/#6_MAKE_SURE_YOUR_ADS_ARE_ACTUALLY_SEEN_WITH_VIEWABILITY_MEASUREMENT\" >#6. MAKE SURE YOUR ADS ARE ACTUALLY SEEN WITH VIEWABILITY MEASUREMENT<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/ad-fraud-prevention\/#7_BRING_IN_THE_BIG_GUNS_WORK_WITH_AN_AD_FRAUD_SPECIALIST\" >#7. BRING IN THE BIG GUNS: WORK WITH AN AD FRAUD SPECIALIST<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/ad-fraud-prevention\/#8_CUT_OUT_THE_MIDDLEMEN_ENGAGE_IN_DIRECT_DEALS_WITH_PUBLISHERS\" >#8. CUT OUT THE MIDDLEMEN: ENGAGE IN DIRECT DEALS WITH PUBLISHERS<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/ad-fraud-prevention\/#_9_LOCK_IT_DOWN_IMPLEMENT_STRICT_AD_TRAFFICKING_POLICIES\" ># 9. LOCK IT DOWN: IMPLEMENT STRICT AD TRAFFICKING POLICIES<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/ad-fraud-prevention\/#10_TAP_INTO_BLOCKCHAIN_FOR_NEXT-LEVEL_AD_FRAUD_PREVENTION\" >#10. TAP INTO BLOCKCHAIN FOR NEXT-LEVEL AD FRAUD PREVENTION<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/ad-fraud-prevention\/#How_to_Spot_Ad_Fraud_Before_It_Drains_Your_Budget\" >How to Spot Ad Fraud Before It Drains Your Budget?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/ad-fraud-prevention\/#Why_You_Need_to_Take_Ad_Fraud_Prevention_Seriously\" >Why You Need to Take Ad Fraud Prevention Seriously?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/ad-fraud-prevention\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_Ad_Fraud\"><\/span>What is Ad Fraud?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" src=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-27.jpg\" alt=\"What is Ad Fraud?\" class=\"wp-image-22845\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-27.jpg 200w, https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-300x300-10.jpg 300w, https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-768x768-10.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Ad fraud is basically a digital scam where fraudsters manipulate ad metrics, fake engagement, and trick advertisers into wasting their money. It\u2019s a sneaky game that has become more sophisticated over the years, costing businesses billions every year. If you\u2019re running ads online, you need to know the game before you get played.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s a breakdown of some of the most common types of ad fraud you should watch out for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/click-fraud-detection\/#:~:text=Conclusion-,What%20Exactly%20is%20Click%20Fraud%3F,-Click%20fraud%20is\">Click fraud<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 Ever wonder why your PPC campaign is burning cash but not bringing in real customers? That\u2019s because fraudsters use bots or click farms to generate fake clicks, draining your ad budget with zero results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Impression fraud<\/strong> \u2013 Some shady publishers inflate ad views by generating fake impressions\u2014meaning your ad technically &#8220;appears&#8221; somewhere, but no real human ever sees it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Domain spoofing<\/strong> \u2013 This is where low-quality sites pretend to be premium publishers to charge higher ad rates. You think you\u2019re advertising on a top-tier site, but your ad is actually sitting on a low-traffic, spammy page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Ad injection<\/strong> \u2013 Ever seen random ads pop up on legit websites? That\u2019s ad injection\u2014fraudsters inserting unauthorized ads through malware or browser extensions, hijacking real <a href=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/buy-website-traffic-2\/\">web traffic<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bot traffic<\/strong> \u2013 Bots are everywhere! Nearly half of all internet traffic comes from bots pretending to be real users, messing with your engagement metrics and distorting campaign results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cookie stuffing<\/strong> \u2013 This scam involves secretly planting multiple affiliate cookies in a user\u2019s browser to wrongfully claim commissions on sales they had nothing to do with.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pixel stuffing<\/strong> \u2013 Ads that are technically &#8220;delivered&#8221; but hidden in tiny, invisible 1\u00d71 pixel frames. Your ad loads, but no human ever sees it\u2014just a sneaky way for fraudsters to steal ad revenue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Fight_Back_with_Ad_Fraud_Prevention_Strategies\"><\/span>How to Fight Back with Ad Fraud Prevention Strategies?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" src=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-28.jpg\" alt=\"How to Fight Back with Ad Fraud Prevention Strategies?\" class=\"wp-image-22847\" style=\"width:838px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-28.jpg 200w, https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-300x300-11.jpg 300w, https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-768x768-11.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Knowing these ad fraud tactics is the first step, but protecting your ad spend requires smart ad fraud prevention strategies. From using fraud detection tools to working with trusted ad networks, businesses must stay ahead of fraudsters to maximize ROI and keep their campaigns legit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the next section, we\u2019ll break down actionable ad fraud prevention strategies that will help you outsmart fraudsters and protect your digital ads from fake traffic and scams. Stay tuned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Should_You_Care_About_Ad_Fraud\"><\/span>Why Should You Care About Ad Fraud?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Ad fraud isn\u2019t just a minor inconvenience; it\u2019s a massive money drain. Businesses lose billions every year to shady fraudsters, fake traffic, and manipulated ad metrics. If you\u2019re spending money on ads, every fraudulent click, impression, or conversion eats directly into your budget, skewing your data and wrecking your <a href=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/leverage-word-of-mouth-referrals-in-your-digital-marketing-strategy\/\">marketing strategy<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But it\u2019s not just about the money. Your brand\u2019s reputation is on the line too. If your ads end up on spammy or low-quality sites, it can damage credibility and make your brand look sketchy. Plus, if you&#8217;re unknowingly funding ad fraud, you\u2019re feeding a corrupt ecosystem that thrives on deception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At the end of the day, ad fraud prevention strategies aren\u2019t just about protecting your ad spend\u2014they\u2019re about keeping your brand\u2019s integrity intact and making sure your marketing efforts actually deliver real results. Addressing ad fraud should be a top priority for anyone serious about digital advertising.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_Some_Top_Strategies_Ad_Fraud_Prevention_to_Stop_Fake_Clicks_from_Draining_Your_Budget\"><\/span>What are Some Top Strategies Ad Fraud Prevention to Stop Fake Clicks from Draining Your Budget?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" src=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-29.jpg\" alt=\"What are Some Top Strategies Ad Fraud Prevention to Stop Fake Clicks from Draining Your Budget?\" class=\"wp-image-22849\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-29.jpg 200w, https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-300x300-12.jpg 300w, https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-768x768-12.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_STICK_WITH_TRUSTED_AD_NETWORKS_AND_PUBLISHERS\"><\/span>#1. STICK WITH TRUSTED AD NETWORKS AND PUBLISHERS<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Ad fraud is everywhere, but your best bet in fighting it is to be picky about where you run your ads. Not all ad networks and publishers are built the same\u2014some have airtight security measures, while others are a playground for fraudsters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To stay ahead, partner with reputable ad networks that have a proven track record in ad fraud prevention strategies. The best platforms invest in AI-powered fraud detection, manual reviews, and real-time monitoring to keep scammers at bay. They also offer transparency, meaning you get a clear view of where your ads are running, who\u2019s seeing them, and whether the engagement is real or just bot-generated fluff.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Here\u2019s how to make sure you\u2019re working with the right partners:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2714 Do your homework \u2013 Research ad networks and check their fraud prevention policies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2714 Look for certifications \u2013 Trustworthy networks comply with standards from groups like TAG (Trustworthy Accountability Group) or IAB (Interactive Advertising Bureau).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2714 Use direct deals whenever possible \u2013 Working directly with premium publishers reduces your exposure to shady third-party resellers who often let fraud slip through the cracks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At the end of the day, choosing the right <a href=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/pay-per-click-advertising-adstargets\/\">ad network<\/a> is the first step in locking down your campaigns against ad fraud. The safer your partners, the lower your chances of wasting money on fake traffic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_USE_SMART_TECH_TO_OUTSMART_AD_FRAUD\"><\/span>#2. USE SMART TECH TO OUTSMART AD FRAUD<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Ad fraud is sneaky, and fraudsters are constantly finding new ways to game the system. That\u2019s why you need to fight fire with fire\u2014and that means using AI-driven fraud detection tools that catch shady activity in real time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The best ad fraud prevention strategies rely on advanced detection technology that goes beyond basic filters. These tools analyze tons of data points, spotting suspicious behavior patterns before they drain your ad budget. Some key areas they monitor include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 IP addresses &amp; browsing behavior \u2013 Repeated clicks from the same IP? Sketchy. A bot farm in action? Busted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 User agent strings &amp; device fingerprints \u2013 If multiple devices share identical digital fingerprints, that\u2019s a red flag.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Click patterns &amp; timing \u2013 Human users don\u2019t click the same way every time, but bots do. AI detects these unnatural patterns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Geographical mismatches \u2013 If your ad targets New York, but a ton of clicks come from overseas? That\u2019s potential fraud.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <a href=\"https:\/\/roardigitalmarketing.co.uk\/blog\/what-is-quality-traffic\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Traffic quality<\/a> \u2013 AI tools analyze whether visitors are real users or just bots faking engagement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tools like DoubleVerify, Integral Ad Science (IAS), and MOAT are leading the charge in ad fraud prevention. They constantly update their fraud detection algorithms to catch new tricks that fraudsters use\u2014so you\u2019re always a step ahead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re serious about protecting your ad spend, investing in advanced fraud detection is a no-brainer. Let the bots waste someone else\u2019s money, not yours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"_3_OWN_YOUR_DATA%E2%80%94DITCH_THE_RISKY_THIRD-PARTY_STUFF\"><\/span># 3. OWN YOUR DATA\u2014DITCH THE RISKY THIRD-PARTY STUFF<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" src=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-30.jpg\" alt=\"# 3. OWN YOUR DATA\u2014DITCH THE RISKY THIRD-PARTY STUFF\" class=\"wp-image-22852\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-30.jpg 200w, https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-300x300-13.jpg 300w, https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-768x768-13.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Want a rock-solid way to shut down ad fraud before it drains your budget? Take control of your data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Relying on third-party data is like trusting a stranger with your wallet\u2014you never really know where it\u2019s been or how accurate it is. That\u2019s why smart advertisers prioritize first-party data, which comes directly from your real audience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Why First-Party Data is a Game Changer for Ad Fraud Prevention<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Super Accurate &amp; Reliable \u2013 You\u2019re not guessing; you\u2019re using data from actual user interactions. No sketchy middlemen involved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Stronger Customer Insights \u2013 The more you understand your audience, the better you can personalize campaigns\u2014and fraudsters can\u2019t fake real engagement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Less Exposure to Ad Fraud \u2013 Third-party data can be riddled with bots, fake users, and outdated info. First-party data? It\u2019s the real deal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Better Privacy Compliance \u2013 With all the data privacy laws out there (think GDPR, CCPA), using your own verified data keeps you on the right side of compliance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Full Control Over Your Data \u2013 No more worrying about data leaks or shady sources messing with your campaign effectiveness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By shifting to a first-party data strategy, you\u2019re not just enhancing ad fraud prevention\u2014you\u2019re making your campaigns smarter, safer, and way more effective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bottom line? Don\u2019t let fraudsters eat up your ad dollars. Own your data, stay in control, and watch YOUR CAMPAIGNS DELIVER REAL RESULTS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_SET_CRYSTAL-CLEAR_KPIS_STAY_ON_HIGH_ALERT\"><\/span>#4. SET CRYSTAL-CLEAR KPIS &amp; STAY ON HIGH ALERT<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re serious about ad fraud prevention, you can\u2019t just &#8220;set and forget&#8221; your campaigns. You need clear KPIs (key performance indicators) and constant monitoring to sniff out anything shady before it burns through your budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s how you keep fraudsters in check:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>#1. &nbsp;Watch These Red Flags Like a Hawk<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>#2. Sky-High <a href=\"https:\/\/digitaladvertisinghub.com\/click-through-rate-on-facebook-ads\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Click-Through Rates<\/a> (CTR) That Make No Sense<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If your CTR is too good to be true, it probably is. Bots can spike clicks without any real intent, wasting your ad spend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705Conversion Rates That Don\u2019t Add Up<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If traffic is pouring in but conversions aren\u2019t matching up, something\u2019s fishy. Real users engage. Fake ones? Not so much.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Traffic From Suspicious or Unknown Sources<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If a big chunk of your visitors are coming from random, low-quality sources, they\u2019re likely bot-generated. Time to investigate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Weird User Behavior &amp; Device Activity<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Repeated clicks from the same devices or IPs? Engagement patterns that look unnatural? These are classic bot signals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705Data Discrepancies Between Ad Servers &amp; Analytics<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If your ad platform reports 10,000 clicks, but Google Analytics barely registers any real visitors, something\u2019s up\u2014and it\u2019s probably ad fraud.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to Stay Ahead of Ad Fraud<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Audit Your Campaigns Regularly \u2013 Set up scheduled deep dives into your ad performance. The earlier you spot fraud, the less damage it does.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Use AI-Powered Fraud Detection Tools \u2013 Tech like DoubleVerify, IAS, and Fraudlogix can catch suspicious traffic before it eats your budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Set Traffic Thresholds \u2013 Define acceptable traffic patterns and flag anything outside the norm. If a sudden spike looks sketchy, pause and investigate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Track User Engagement, Not Just Clicks \u2013 Real users browse, interact, and convert. Bots just inflate numbers. Look beyond surface metrics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By setting clear KPIs and closely monitoring every aspect of your campaigns, you\u2019re putting up a strong defense against fraudsters. The goal? Maximize real ROI while keeping scammers out of your budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_LOCK_DOWN_YOUR_ADS_WITH_ADSTXT\"><\/span>#5. LOCK DOWN YOUR ADS WITH ADS.TXT<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re not using ads.txt, you\u2019re practically inviting fraudsters to mess with your campaigns. This simple but powerful tool helps crack down on ad fraud by stopping shady resellers and domain spoofers from selling fake inventory in your name.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s Ads.txt &amp; Why Should You Care?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ads.txt (Authorized Digital Sellers) is like a &#8220;verified sellers list&#8221; for your ads. It lets publishers publicly declare which ad networks are legit and allowed to sell their inventory. If an advertiser buys ad space from a non-listed seller, they\u2019ll know something\u2019s off.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Why Implement Ads.txt?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>#1.To stop Domain Spoofing Dead in Its Tracks<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fraudsters can fake a premium domain (like Forbes.com) and trick advertisers into buying ads that actually run on some sketchy, low-quality site. Ads.txt shuts that down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>#2. Brings More Transparency to Programmatic Ads<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The programmatic ad space is full of middlemen. Ads.txt cuts through the noise, showing exactly who\u2019s allowed to sell ad inventory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>#3. Gives Advertisers Better Control &amp; Brand Safety<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With ads.txt, advertisers can verify inventory sources before making a purchase. No more wasting money on fake impressions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>#4. Builds Trust Between Advertisers &amp; Publishers<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Transparency wins. Advertisers get legit traffic, publishers get fair ad revenue, and fraudsters get locked out of the equation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to Implement Ads.txt for Ad Fraud Prevention<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Publishers: Add a simple ads.txt file to your site listing all authorized sellers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Advertisers: Always check if a website has a verified ads.txt file before buying ad space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Regularly Update Ads.txt: Keep it clean by removing unauthorized sellers or outdated partners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Use Ads.txt Crawlers: Tools like Google Ad Manager can verify ads.txt compliance and flag issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Using ads.txt is one of the easiest ad fraud prevention strategies out there. It doesn\u2019t take much effort, but the impact is huge\u2014you\u2019ll block out bad actors, protect your ad spend, and ensure your ads actually land where they\u2019re supposed to. A win-win all around.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_MAKE_SURE_YOUR_ADS_ARE_ACTUALLY_SEEN_WITH_VIEWABILITY_MEASUREMENT\"><\/span>#6. MAKE SURE YOUR ADS ARE ACTUALLY SEEN WITH VIEWABILITY MEASUREMENT<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" src=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-100.jpg\" alt=\"#6. MAKE SURE YOUR ADS ARE ACTUALLY SEEN WITH VIEWABILITY MEASUREMENT\" class=\"wp-image-22854\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-100.jpg 200w, https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-300x300-25.jpg 300w, https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-768x768-23.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Throwing money at ads that no one sees? That\u2019s a rookie mistake. Just because an ad is served doesn\u2019t mean it\u2019s viewed by a real user\u2014or even a human at all. Ad fraud thrives on fake impressions, and if you&#8217;re not tracking viewability, you\u2019re leaving the door wide open for scammers to eat up your budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s Viewability &amp; Why Does It Matter?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Viewability measurement tracks whether an ad is actually seen by a real person, instead of just being loaded in an invisible or out-of-frame placement. Platforms like NEXD\u2019s 5-pixel viewability measurement give advertisers precise tracking to separate genuine ad exposure from fraudulent traffic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Why You Need Viewability Measurement<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Guarantees Your Ads Have a Fighting Chance<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What\u2019s the point of an ad that\u2019s hidden below the fold or buried in some dark corner of a shady site? Viewability measurement ensures your ad is in a visible spot with a real chance of making an impact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Filters Out Non-Viewable, Fraudulent Inventory<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ad fraudsters love selling fake impressions\u2014invisible ads, bot traffic, pixel stuffing, and all that garbage. Viewability tracking helps weed out placements that don\u2019t actually reach real eyeballs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Optimizes Ad Placements for Maximum Visibility<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can use viewability data to fine-tune ad placements, ensuring your money goes where engagement is highest instead of wasting it on dead zones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Aligns Billing with Real Exposure<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Why should you pay for ads that no one sees? Demand viewable impressions, so you\u2019re only charged for ads that meet industry standards (at least 50% of pixels in view for 1 second).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Boosts Overall Campaign Effectiveness<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Higher viewability = better engagement = stronger conversions. Keeping fraudsters out means your campaign data stays accurate, leading to smarter decisions and better ROI.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to Use Viewability for Ad Fraud Prevention<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udd39 Choose Networks &amp; Platforms That Offer Viewability Metrics<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udd39 Set Viewability Thresholds (e.g., 70%+ viewability rate) for Your Ads<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udd39 Regularly Audit &amp; Optimize Placements Based on Viewability Scores<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udd39 Use Third-Party Tools (MOAT, IAS, DoubleVerify) for Independent Verification<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By making viewability measurement a key part of your ad fraud prevention strategies, you\u2019ll ensure your ads aren\u2019t just floating in a black hole of bot traffic. Instead, they\u2019ll be seen by real users, driving better engagement, more conversions, and less wasted ad spend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_BRING_IN_THE_BIG_GUNS_WORK_WITH_AN_AD_FRAUD_SPECIALIST\"><\/span>#7. BRING IN THE BIG GUNS: WORK WITH AN AD FRAUD SPECIALIST<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Ad fraud is a full-time job for scammers, and if you\u2019re not staying ahead of them, you\u2019re bleeding ad dollars. The game is constantly evolving, with fraudsters finding new ways to manipulate impressions, clicks, and conversions. Sometimes, DIY fraud prevention just won\u2019t cut it. That\u2019s when you need to call in the experts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ad fraud prevention isn\u2019t just about blocking a few bad sites\u2014it\u2019s a constant battle against evolving threats. That\u2019s where ad fraud specialists come in. These pros live and breathe fraud detection, using AI-powered tools, real-time monitoring, and forensic analysis to catch shady activity before it drains your budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What an Ad Fraud Specialist Brings to the Table<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#1. Advanced Fraud Detection Tech<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fraudsters don\u2019t sleep, and neither do AI-driven detection tools. Specialists use machine learning algorithms, behavioral analytics, and traffic verification systems to spot fake clicks, bot traffic, and shady placements in real-time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#2. Custom Ad Fraud Prevention Strategies<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Not all fraud looks the same. A generic approach won\u2019t cut it. Fraud specialists tailor solutions to your campaign, ensuring targeted protection based on the platforms, audience, and ad types you\u2019re using.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#3. &nbsp;Comprehensive Audits &amp; Continuous Monitoring<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Think your ads are safe? Fraud specialists audit your entire advertising ecosystem, flagging suspicious patterns and keeping fraudsters out before they can do damage. They don\u2019t just react\u2014they proactively prevent fraud.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#4. Maximized ROI &amp; Reduced Wasted Spend<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Every fraudulent click, impression, or install eats away at your ad budget. Fraud experts cut the waste, ensuring every dollar you spend reaches real users\u2014not bots, click farms, or shady publishers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#5. Stronger Partnerships with Trusted Ad Networks<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The best fraud specialists have strong industry connections, giving you access to verified, high-quality ad networks that prioritize brand safety and transparency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to Choose the Right Ad Fraud Specialist<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udd39 Look for Proven Expertise in Ad Fraud Prevention Strategies<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udd39 Check Their Track Record with Other Advertisers in Your Industry<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udd39 Ensure They Offer Real-Time Monitoring &amp; Custom Fraud Prevention Solutions<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udd39 Verify Their Use of AI, Machine Learning &amp; Forensic Analysis<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udd39 Make Sure They Provide Transparent Reporting &amp; Actionable Insights<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At the end of the day, working with an ad fraud specialist isn\u2019t an expense\u2014it\u2019s an investment in securing your ad budget, protecting your brand, and ensuring your campaigns drive real results. If you\u2019re serious about ad fraud prevention, don\u2019t fight this battle alone\u2014bring in the experts and keep your ads working for you, not against you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_CUT_OUT_THE_MIDDLEMEN_ENGAGE_IN_DIRECT_DEALS_WITH_PUBLISHERS\"><\/span>#8. CUT OUT THE MIDDLEMEN: ENGAGE IN DIRECT DEALS WITH PUBLISHERS<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the smartest ad fraud prevention strategies you can use? Go straight to the source. Instead of relying on programmatic ads\u2014where fraud runs wild\u2014secure direct deals with reputable publishers. This not only reduces fraud risks but also gives you full control over where your ads show up. No sketchy middlemen, no bot-infested websites, just legit placements that bring real eyeballs to your ads.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Why Direct Deals Beat Programmatic Ads<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>#<strong>1. More Transparency, Less Guesswork<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With programmatic advertising, your ad dollars can end up in the wrong hands\u2014fake sites, click farms, or bot-driven traffic sources. Direct deals let you know exactly where your ads are running, eliminating the blind spots that fraudsters love to exploit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>#<strong>2. Stronger Ad Fraud Prevention<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fraudsters thrive in the murky waters of automated ad exchanges, where they can mask fake traffic as real engagement. By partnering directly with publishers, you cut out a major entry point for fraud and ensure your ads only appear on high-quality, reputable sites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#3. Better Targeting &amp; Engagement<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you work with publishers directly, you can customize placements to align with your audience\u2019s interests. This means higher engagement rates and a greater chance of turning viewers into actual customers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#4. More Control Over Your Budget &amp; Performance<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Instead of paying for inflated bot clicks and fake impressions, your ad spend actually goes toward real users. With direct oversight, you can track performance with full transparency and tweak your strategy as needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to Lock in the Best Direct Deals<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Vet Publishers for Reputation &amp; Traffic Quality<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Not all publishers are equal. Look for those with proven audience engagement, strong domain authority, and a clean track record.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Negotiate for Premium Ad Placements<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Don\u2019t settle for generic placements. Secure prime spots that maximize visibility and boost campaign performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Insist on Transparent Reporting<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Make sure the publisher shares detailed analytics, including traffic sources, engagement metrics, and conversion data. This helps you spot any potential ad fraud attempts before they become a problem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Use Additional Ad Fraud Prevention Strategies<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even with direct deals, you\u2019ll want to layer on extra protection\u2014like viewability tracking, AI-driven fraud detection, and traffic verification tools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At the end of the day, cutting out the middlemen and working directly with publishers is one of the strongest defenses against ad fraud. It\u2019s a win-win\u2014you get higher-quality placements, better engagement, and peace of mind knowing your ads are actually reaching real people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"_9_LOCK_IT_DOWN_IMPLEMENT_STRICT_AD_TRAFFICKING_POLICIES\"><\/span># 9. LOCK IT DOWN: IMPLEMENT STRICT AD TRAFFICKING POLICIES<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" src=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-31.jpg\" alt=\"# 9. LOCK IT DOWN: IMPLEMENT STRICT AD TRAFFICKING POLICIES\" class=\"wp-image-22856\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-31.jpg 200w, https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-300x300-14.jpg 300w, https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-1-768x768-14.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re serious about ad fraud prevention strategies, you need to tighten up your ad trafficking game. Loose policies and poor oversight leave the door wide open for fraudsters to siphon your ad budget into bot clicks, fake impressions, and shady traffic sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Why Strict Ad Trafficking Policies Matter<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Filters Out Fraudulent Traffic from the Start<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A clear ad trafficking policy sets boundaries on where your ads can and cannot appear, who can run your campaigns, and what traffic sources are acceptable. This eliminates the low-quality, fraud-ridden channels where ad fraud thrives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Prevents Wasted Ad Spend on Bots &amp; Click Farms<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Without proper guidelines, your ads could be targeting fake audiences, driving zero real engagement while racking up meaningless impressions. A strict policy ensures you\u2019re paying for real users, not artificial traffic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Keeps Your Team Sharp &amp; Vigilant<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fraudsters are always leveling up their game, so your ad team needs to stay ahead. Regular training on new ad fraud tactics and best practices for monitoring campaigns makes sure everyone is on high alert.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Protects Your Brand Reputation<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Running ads on fraudulent sites or non-brand-safe environments can damage credibility. A strong ad trafficking policy helps steer clear of sketchy placements that could tarnish your brand\u2019s image.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to Strengthen Your Ad Trafficking Policies<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udd39 Set Hard Rules for Ad Placements &amp; Targeting<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Define approved traffic sources and banned websites or ad networks. Avoid placements on low-quality inventory where ad fraud is rampant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udd39 Require Transparency from Publishers &amp; Networks<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Only work with trusted platforms that provide detailed reporting on traffic sources, ad viewability, and user interactions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udd39 Regularly Audit Ad Operations<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Conduct routine checks on campaign performance, engagement metrics, and traffic quality. Look for red flags\u2014like sudden spikes in clicks, unusual referral sources, or high CTR with no conversions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udd39 Use AI-Powered Fraud Detection Tools<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Invest in automated fraud detection to identify and block suspicious activity in real time. Tools like DoubleVerify, IAS, and MOAT help detect invalid traffic and fake engagements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udd39 Train Your Team on Ad Fraud Prevention Strategies<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ensure everyone handling ads knows what to look for. Keep them updated on the latest fraud techniques, so they can spot and report suspicious activity before it eats into your budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By enforcing strict ad trafficking policies, you lock down vulnerabilities, block fraudulent traffic, and make sure your ad spend goes toward real, high-quality engagement. That\u2019s how you stay ahead of the fraudsters and keep your campaigns clean, effective, and profitable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_TAP_INTO_BLOCKCHAIN_FOR_NEXT-LEVEL_AD_FRAUD_PREVENTION\"><\/span>#10. TAP INTO BLOCKCHAIN FOR NEXT-LEVEL AD FRAUD PREVENTION<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Ad fraud is a billion-dollar problem, and fraudsters are getting smarter by the day. But blockchain technology is stepping in as a game-changer, bringing transparency and accountability to the digital advertising space. If you\u2019re not already paying attention, it\u2019s time to get in on this revolution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>How Blockchain Fights Ad Fraud<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Blockchain operates on a decentralized ledger, meaning every ad transaction is permanently recorded, tamper-proof, and 100% verifiable. No more shady middlemen, no more hidden fees, and no more fake impressions slipping through the cracks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With blockchain, every click, every impression, and every placement is out in the open, making it a nightmare for fraudsters to manipulate. Here\u2019s how it locks down your ad campaigns:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Full Transparency on Ad Placements<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Every transaction is stored on a public ledger, giving advertisers a crystal-clear view of where their ads are actually running. No more black-box networks feeding your budget to bot farms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Tamper-Proof Tracking<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fraudsters thrive on falsifying data, but with blockchain, once a transaction is recorded, it can&#8217;t be altered or erased. This means what you see is what you get, with no room for manipulation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Verifiable Traffic = Fewer Fake Clicks<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Since blockchain can verify user authenticity, it cuts down bot-driven engagement and ensures you\u2019re paying for real eyeballs, not scripted traffic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Smart Contracts for Fraud-Free Deals<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With automated smart contracts, payments only go through when predefined conditions are met\u2014like ensuring your ad was actually seen by a human, not a bot. No view? No payment. Simple.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to Start Using Blockchain for Ad Fraud Prevention<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udd39 Partner with Blockchain-Powered Ad Networks<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Platforms like Lucidity, AdChain, and XCHNG use blockchain to verify ad transactions, prevent fraud, and optimize ad spend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udd39 Use Token-Based Verification for Authentic Engagement<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some blockchain ad platforms operate on tokenized rewards, ensuring only legit users interact with your ads. This filters out fraudulent traffic automatically.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udd39 Demand Transparency from Ad Vendors<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If a network isn\u2019t offering blockchain-backed verification, start asking why. Fraudsters hide behind vague metrics\u2014blockchain exposes them in broad daylight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udd39 Integrate Blockchain into Your Ad Fraud Prevention Strategies<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Combine blockchain verification with AI-powered fraud detection tools like IAS and MOAT to double down on security and catch fraud before it drains your budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Though blockchain in advertising is still evolving, its potential to eliminate ad fraud is massive. If you want full control, real transparency, and airtight security for your ad spend, blockchain technology is your best bet. It\u2019s time to ditch the outdated, fraud-prone systems and embrace the future of fraud-free advertising.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Spot_Ad_Fraud_Before_It_Drains_Your_Budget\"><\/span>How to Spot Ad Fraud Before It Drains Your Budget?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Ad fraud is sneaky, costly, and rampant\u2014and if you\u2019re not actively watching for it, your ad budget could be going straight into the pockets of fraudsters. But don\u2019t sweat it, because there are clear red flags that can help you catch fraudulent activity before it spirals out of control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s how to identify ad fraud and tighten up your ad fraud prevention strategies before your campaigns go up in smoke.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong># 1. Unexplained Traffic Spikes? Red Flag!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If your traffic suddenly shoots up out of nowhere, especially from unknown sources or countries you\u2019re not targeting, chances are you\u2019re dealing with bot-driven traffic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 What to do:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Check where the traffic is coming from. If it&#8217;s from regions you don\u2019t serve, it\u2019s a dead giveaway of fraud.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Compare it with past performance\u2014if the growth doesn\u2019t match your marketing efforts, something shady is going on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#2. Sky-High Clicks, But No Conversions? Watch Out.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If your click-through rates (CTR) are through the roof but conversions are practically non-existent, you\u2019re probably dealing with bots clicking on your ads to burn your budget. Real users click and take action\u2014bots just click and disappear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 What to do:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Monitor CTR vs. conversion rates. If clicks don\u2019t turn into leads, it\u2019s a major warning sign.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use fraud detection tools like Moat, Forensiq, or ClickCease to analyze the quality of clicks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#3. Repetitive Engagement Patterns? Bots on Repeat.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If your engagement data looks too neat and predictable, that\u2019s not normal\u2014it\u2019s a bot farm at work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>#1. Same number of clicks at the same times every day?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>#2. Every session lasting exactly the same amount of time?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>#3. Users scrolling, clicking, and bouncing in perfectly identical patterns?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 What to do:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Look for irregularities in human behavior\u2014real users behave unpredictably, bots don\u2019t.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Set up behavior-based fraud detection to catch unnatural engagement patterns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#4. Weird Geographic Traffic? That\u2019s a Problem.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If most of your traffic is coming from regions that have zero relevance to your business, then congrats\u2014you\u2019re being played.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 What to do:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Run a geo-analysis in Google Analytics or GA4.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re targeting the US but getting a flood of traffic from countries you\u2019ve never marketed to, block those locations in your ad settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#5. Skyrocketing Bounce Rates? Suspicious AF.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When users land on your site and bounce instantly, you\u2019ve got a problem. While some bounce is normal, a sudden spike after launching an ad campaign is a strong sign of ad fraud.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 What to do:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Compare bounce rates before and after launching an ad\u2014if it jumps overnight, something is fishy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use heatmaps (like Hotjar or Crazy Egg) to see if users are actually interacting or just bouncing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Stay Ahead with Strong Ad Fraud Prevention Strategies<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now that you know the warning signs, it\u2019s time to level up your defenses. Here\u2019s how:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udd39 Use AI-powered fraud detection tools to automatically flag suspicious activity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udd39 Blacklist known fraud-heavy sites to keep bad traffic out of your campaigns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udd39 Set strict targeting parameters to block sketchy locations and shady traffic sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udd39 Regularly audit your campaign performance so fraudsters don\u2019t get comfortable draining your budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Don\u2019t Let Fraudsters Play You. Fight Back. Ad fraud is everywhere, but with the right tools and vigilance, you can shut it down before it ruins your ROI. The sooner you spot the red flags, the faster you can take action. Stay sharp, monitor your metrics, and keep refining your ad fraud prevention strategies\u2014because every wasted dollar is a win for fraudsters. Don\u2019t let them win.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_You_Need_to_Take_Ad_Fraud_Prevention_Seriously\"><\/span><strong>Why You Need to Take Ad Fraud Prevention Seriously?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Ad fraud isn\u2019t just some minor inconvenience\u2014it\u2019s a multi-billion-dollar industry that siphons money straight from your ad budget while making your analytics look like a mess. If you\u2019re not actively deploying ad fraud prevention strategies, you\u2019re basically throwing cash at bots, fake traffic, and shady publishers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So why should you double down on ad fraud prevention? Let\u2019s break it down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#1. More Money in Your Pocket, Less for Fraudsters<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s be real\u2014ad fraud drains your budget like a leaky faucet. Every bot click, fake impression, or fraudulent engagement steals real money that could have been used to reach actual potential customers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Why it matters:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Eliminating fraudulent activity means more of your budget is spent on real, interested users.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019re not paying for worthless clicks or impressions, so every dollar works harder for your campaign.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fraud prevention frees up ad spend, allowing you to scale effective campaigns instead of wasting money on bots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#2. Higher ROI \u2013 Because You\u2019re Reaching Real People<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The key to great marketing? Getting in front of the right audience. Bots don\u2019t buy, fake users don\u2019t convert, and low-quality placements don\u2019t drive real results. With strong ad fraud prevention strategies, your ads actually reach real, engaged prospects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Why it matters:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>No more fake clicks from bot farms\u2014just genuine leads that can turn into customers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>More accurate targeting means better conversions, leading to a serious boost in ROI.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Instead of wasting budget on useless impressions, you\u2019re spending efficiently and getting more bang for your buck.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#3. Protecting Your Brand from Sketchy Associations<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ever seen legit brands unknowingly running ads on low-quality, spammy, or outright illegal sites? That\u2019s what happens when ad fraud runs unchecked. Fraudsters don\u2019t care where your ads land\u2014as long as they\u2019re making money off it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Why it matters:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You control where your ads appear, ensuring they only run on high-quality, brand-safe platforms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Avoid getting linked to adult, extremist, or scammy sites that can wreck your brand\u2019s credibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Consumers trust brands that advertise responsibly\u2014this builds reputation and long-term customer loyalty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#4. Clean, Reliable Data for Smarter Decisions<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your marketing is only as good as your data. If fraudulent clicks and fake impressions inflate your analytics, you\u2019re making decisions based on lies\u2014and that\u2019s a recipe for wasted budget and failed campaigns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Why it matters:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ad fraud skews your analytics, making it hard to optimize campaigns effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Preventing fraud ensures that your data reflects real user behavior, so you can make smart marketing moves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With accurate metrics, you can tweak your strategy based on actual performance, not fraudulent noise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#5. Better User Experience, Better Brand Perception<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ever been bombarded with sketchy ads that feel like scams? That\u2019s exactly what happens when brands don\u2019t control their ad placements. Fake ads and fraudulent traffic don\u2019t just cost you money\u2014they can also damage your brand\u2019s reputation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Why it matters:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Customers trust brands that advertise in a clean, non-spammy way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If your ads land on fake sites, scammy platforms, or shady networks, it reflects poorly on you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fraud-free campaigns create a better ad experience, making your brand more credible and trustworthy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#6. Stay on the Right Side of the Law<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Regulations around digital advertising fraud are getting tighter, and ignoring ad fraud could land you in hot water. From GDPR to CCPA, the push for ethical advertising is only getting stronger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 Why it matters:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Avoid legal trouble by ensuring your campaigns comply with advertising regulations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Stay ahead of industry standards and maintain an ethical, transparent marketing strategy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Build a trustworthy reputation that consumers (and regulators) respect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The Bottom Line:<\/strong> Ad Fraud Prevention Saves You Money &amp; Protects Your Brand<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ad fraud is robbing businesses blind every single day. But with proactive ad fraud prevention strategies, you can protect your budget, boost ROI, and ensure your brand stays credible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Want to stop wasting money on fraud and start running smarter ad campaigns? It\u2019s time to step up your fraud detection game and shut down scammers for good.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What are the Harsh Realities of Ad Fraud Prevention \u2013 Challenges and Limitations?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>No doubt, ad fraud prevention strategies are a game-changer for brands looking to protect their ad spend and ensure their campaigns hit real audiences. But let\u2019s be honest\u2014stopping ad fraud isn\u2019t a walk in the park. Fraudsters are relentless, the tech is expensive, and even the best solutions have their blind spots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, what\u2019s standing in the way of flawless ad fraud prevention? Let\u2019s dive into the biggest challenges and limitations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#1. Fraudsters Are Always One Step Ahead<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ad fraud isn\u2019t static\u2014it\u2019s a moving target. Just when you think you\u2019ve locked out the fraudsters, they come up with new, sneaky ways to bypass detection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What you\u2019re up against:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>#1. Botnets that mimic human behavior, making it harder to separate fake traffic from real users.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>#2. Click farms where low-wage workers manually engage with ads, throwing off fraud detection systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>#3. Domain spoofing\u2014where fraudsters disguise bad sites as premium ones, tricking advertisers into paying top dollar for worthless impressions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The fix?<\/strong> Ad fraud prevention strategies need to evolve constantly. This means using AI-driven detection, keeping an eye on traffic patterns, and staying ahead with regular updates and fraud audits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#2. The Price Tag Can Be Painful<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want cutting-edge fraud prevention, get ready to spend big. The best solutions use AI, machine learning, and real-time analysis\u2014all of which require serious investment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Why it\u2019s a challenge:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>#1. High costs for premium fraud detection tools, making it tough for smaller businesses to afford them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>#2. Continuous maintenance and updates, since ad fraud tactics keep evolving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>#3. The need for expert oversight, because fraud prevention isn\u2019t just plug-and-play\u2014it requires constant monitoring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The fix?<\/strong> If a full-scale system is out of budget, combine multiple fraud detection methods\u2014such as manual monitoring, IP filtering, and third-party verification\u2014to keep costs manageable while still reducing ad fraud risks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#3. The &#8220;False Positive&#8221; Headache<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Imagine losing real customers because your fraud system thinks they\u2019re bots. That\u2019s false positives in action, and they can cost you legit traffic and revenue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Why it\u2019s tricky<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>#1. Some fraud detection tools err on the side of caution, blocking even legitimate clicks and views.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>#2. Over-aggressive filtering can hurt campaign performance, making it look like your ads aren\u2019t reaching real people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>#3. If legit users get flagged as fraud, you\u2019re missing out on real engagement and conversions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The fix?<\/strong> Instead of relying on a single fraud detection tool, use a mix of strategies\u2014like behavioral analytics, multi-factor authentication, and human oversight\u2014to reduce false positives without opening the floodgates to fraud.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#4. Too Many Tools, Not Enough Harmony<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With so many ad fraud prevention tools on the market, it\u2019s easy to get lost in a sea of conflicting reports and incomplete data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The problem?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>#1. No industry-wide standard for fraud detection, so different tools flag different things as fraud.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>#2. Lack of synchronization\u2014one platform might detect fraud in real-time, while another works on a delay, causing inconsistencies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>#3. Integration issues\u2014trying to make multiple fraud tools work together seamlessly is often a headache.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The fix?<\/strong> Stick to a centralized fraud prevention strategy, using one primary fraud detection tool with a few supporting methods. This keeps things cohesive and ensures consistent fraud detection across platforms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The Bottom Line:<\/strong> Ad Fraud Prevention Is a Must, Despite the Challenges<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, ad fraud prevention strategies have their hurdles. The fraudsters are crafty, the tech is expensive, and false positives are frustrating. But ignoring ad fraud isn\u2019t an option\u2014it\u2019s a direct threat to your ad budget, data accuracy, and brand safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The key? Stay proactive. Stay adaptive. Stay protected. With the right fraud prevention mix, you can\u2019t eliminate fraud entirely, but you can make it damn hard for scammers to steal your money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The digital advertising game is full of twists and turns, but with the right ad fraud prevention strategies, you can stay ahead of the scammers and keep your ad budget working for you. This blog has laid out ten solid strategies to help you fight ad fraud head-on, making sure your ads land in front of real people\u2014not bots, click farms, or fake sites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By staying sharp and proactive, you\u2019re not just protecting your ad spend\u2014you\u2019re safeguarding your brand\u2019s reputation and ensuring genuine engagement. The reality? Fraudsters aren\u2019t slowing down, so neither should you. The digital world keeps evolving, and so must our approach to ad fraud prevention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The key takeaway? Don\u2019t wait for fraud to drain your budget\u2014act now. With insight, the right tools, and a watchful eye, you can keep your campaigns clean, effective, and fraud-free. Stay smart, stay ahead, and let\u2019s keep ad fraud out of the game.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Ad fraud is one of the biggest headaches in digital advertising. It\u2019s basically a dirty game where fraudsters manipulate performance metrics, hike up ad costs, and drain marketing budgets\u2014all without delivering real results. In 2022 alone, ad fraud losses hit a whopping $81 billion, and by the end of 2023, that number is expected to [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":19,"featured_media":22902,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[1312,1308,1313],"class_list":["post-22841","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-business-promotion-online-advertising","tag-ad-fraud-prevention","tag-click-fraud-detection","tag-fake-clicks"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22841","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/19"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=22841"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22841\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":22900,"href":"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22841\/revisions\/22900"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/22902"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=22841"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=22841"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adstargets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=22841"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}