What the Proliferation of Fake News on Google and Facebook Means for Advertisers

Agency execs weigh in

Just days after facing harsh criticism for allowing fake news stories to be read unchecked across the internet, Google and Facebook are now rushing to put in place policies that cut off advertising dollars for websites publishing fictional information. The move—which aims to potentially stem the flow of false information that some say helped propel Republican President-elect Donald Trump's march to the White House—could be a first step by the tech giants toward clearing themselves of content that's seen as harmful to both users and the brands that place their names next to it.

But if they can't clear the weeds fast enough, will advertising dollars head to purer grounds? Or, with Google and Facebook's amazing scale, does it even matter to brands?

"I think it should [matter]," said Red Interactive Agency's CEO Brian Lovell.

AW+

WORK SMARTER - LEARN, GROW AND BE INSPIRED.

Spring Special

Save 30% Off an ADWEEK Subscription Today!

View Your Options

Already a member? Sign in