Google Ad Policy: Personal Files Now Shape Targeting

Google has altered its privacy policy to permit ad targeting based on the contents of user files. The change, first identified by Android Authority, creates a specific exception to the company's previous rule against using data from Drive, Gmail, or Google Photos for personalized advertising.

Prior to the update, the policy explicitly stated that Google would not use data from these services for ads. Effective October 16, the text now includes a qualifier. The commitment to avoid using this data holds only unless a user chooses to make it available to other Google services that support personalized ads.

The revision applies to individuals who have linked their personal accounts to AI Mode and other Search tools via Google's Personal Intelligence feature. This connection allows the tools to analyze a user's content to provide tailored answers. Under the new terms, that same data sharing also enables advertisers to target users based on that content.

Google outlines several limits to the practice. Advertisers do not gain direct access to user files or personally identifying details like names and email addresses. The company also states it will not show ads based on sensitive categories, including race, sexual orientation, religion, or health conditions.

The policy text clarifies that users may allow services like Search or Gemini Apps to access data from other products, including Workspace apps, to provide a more personalized experience. It notes that Search may process permitted data to personalize content, including ads. For example, a user searching for mountain bikes in Search might later see ads for sports equipment on YouTube.

Users who prefer to keep their personal data out of ad targeting have two primary options. They can select which apps to disconnect from Search's Personal Intelligence features. Alternatively, they can switch off Personalized Recommendations entirely through the Search Services Personalization settings page.