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Areas of questionable legality

Note

To ensure consistency worldwide, Microsoft Advertising enforces our policies across our ad network using the English version. We provide translated versions as a courtesy to our clients, though the translations are not meant to change the content or meaning of the official policy language.

Important

This policy applies to all ad types.

Note

This page was last updated on April 8, 2026.

To ensure that all advertisements comply with legal standards and maintain high standards of ethical advertising practices, Microsoft strictly prohibits advertising for illegal products, content, and services. Examples include, but are not limited to, counterfeit goods, unlicensed pharmaceuticals, and unauthorized streaming services.

Additionally, Microsoft reserves the right to refuse advertisements for content, products, and services if their legality or regulatory status is ambiguous.

Microsoft will remove ads and advertisers from serving on our network in response to valid orders from government or regulatory agencies addressing illegal content.

What Happens When an Ad Policy is Violated

The penalty varies by the nature of the violation, and the number of violations. Learn More

Note

Go back to Disallowed Content

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