My Microsoft ads account got suspended before I even created a campaign .

Exactly the same issue here... Tried 2 separate accounts and assumed it was the Google Ads link that was triggering the ban so was going to try and manually build a campaign with a 3rd account, but assuming if it's the domain that's getting banned then I'll see the same issue?

The first account was running for a couple of months before being suspended but the second was suspended as soon as I entered the client details.

Surely there is some way around this?

This has just happened to me too!!!

I read somewhere that it would be good to use Bing to advertise as it will bring a whole new audience.

I signed up and was guided through the system to create my first campaign and Ad. I simply used the copy from an ad I've used in Google for over 5 years. Suddenly - BOOM...I'm suspended. I followed the link to the appeal page and a few days later received this email (see below) which I've reviewed, none of which I have violated. I then contacted MS via the Chat and they confirmed that they could not explain why I was suspended and that there is no further possible appeal process. This is complete madness. All I wanted to do is do some advertising to not rely so heavily on Google. CRAZY!!

Hello from Microsoft Advertising,

We have reviewed your appeal request of Manager Account xxxxxx and determined the account is in violation of the Microsoft Advertising Egregious Policy .

Egregious violations include:

• Obfuscation of advertiser or payer identity, to include providing inaccurate identity information or documentation
• Use of the service to facilitate illegal practices or content.
• This includes promoting illegal products or services.
• Malicious software codes (e.g., malware, phishing, scareware, ransomware, pirated software).
• Any landing page or downloadable content which removes user control.
• Ad content which obfuscates the intention or functionality of any downloaded product or provided service.
• Circumventing or evading system service safeguards or monitoring.
• Any content or action designed to facilitate gaining unauthorized access to any user, advertiser, or data, or manipulate the Microsoft Advertising service.
• Deceptive or obfuscated content, cloaking, or spoofing.
• Impersonation, manipulation or deceptive media, or deceptive use of name or brand to imply endorsement.
• Excessive collection of personal information unnecessary to fulfill ad promise.
• Emotionally manipulative or coercive content.
• Attempting to circumvent our account suspension or other measures intended to enforce our policies or terms by creating a new advertiser account or Manager Account.

The most frustrating thing about it for me, is that my client has direct competitors advertising on Bing as well, I used that fact to convince them to try it, and then this moronic flagging system is basically saying we're not allowed to compete!

I looked on reddit to see if others had encountered the issue and discussed it there. Won't bother trying to link directly to threads but amongst suggestions were

• "properly setup payment and billing during account creation to prevent getting flagged"
• "Try again with a new email address. Fails, repeat until it finally accepts and doesn't block. We have had this happen with 8 clients so far."

There was one commenter on reddit that seemed to have some sort of plug at Microsoft to get accounts unsuspended, don't know if they're worth harassing them though.

Hi Matt,

I was with one of your reps creating a new account not even a campaign and as soon as I was placing the payment method which my debit card is related to the business I was kicked out and suspended!. I made sure every piece of information was correct and I don't understand why this happened. You guys had a great rep (John) helping me and he had to create an appeal since I was not able to on my end REF# 7024769173. My business is being damaged due to the overall situation and I appreciate if you guys can do something about this since these comments are now scaring me.

Thank you and I'm looking forward towards a prompt response and to work together!

Best regards,

Luis Neira

This issue seems to be EPIDEMIC. Just do a quick google search and you will see a LOT of similar complaints. Ordinary non technical people are trying to utilize BING advertising AND GIVE THEM MONEY and they are being shut out without any explanation, no way to appeal, and then insulted with emails like the one quoted below.

The email below was sent to my locksmith company. We have been in business for over 10 years and only ever used Google until I started asking customers where they heard of us. When they responded "Bing" I decided we should advertise with Bing. Were successful for a short time but then we tried to change the ad a little bit and this happened.

I am furious that they wont tell is why so we can either explain or FIX whatever is wrong. That is just a STUPID way to do business, and an EXCELLENT way to alienate people from Bing and by association, Microsoft!

QUOTE

This is Neicolle from Microsoft Advertising. It’s a pleasure connecting with you again. I value your efforts and I am glad that you were able to connect with Microsoft Advertising. As a recap, you contacted us because your account has been suspended. I am still not able to connect you with one of our supervisors since there are no available at the moment. I will be reaching you out again once we get a hold of one.I know how precious time is to you and I really feel bad being the bearer of the review result.

Based on our investigation, your account will remain closed. For privacy and security reasons, we cannot provide details around your specific account closure, but the account was determined to be high risk to other customers or advertisers, as stated in ourEditorial GuidelinesandTerms of Use.

Please know that we have taken this matter seriously and have thoroughly investigated the issue. This decision is final and is irreversible.

Just to set your expectation each old or new account here in Microsoft are required to undergo a normal review as a security check that help us to create a safe environment for both you and your customers. To further know more about the policies of Microsoft Advertising, you might want to refer to this link: Microsoft Advertising policies.

It's my pleasure assisting you today. I still root for your further success. Take care always! If you have questions or if you wish to discuss this further, please feel free to reply to this email. You may also contact our support team at 1-800-518-5689 between Mon—Fri: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. PT for accurate response.

END QUOTE

END RANT