TrafficStars Creative Rules

TrafficStars has established clear creative rules to ensure ads meet quality standards, comply with regulations, and deliver a positive user experience. This article outlines the key guidelines and requirements for ad creatives on Traffic Stars, helping advertisers design campaigns that are both impactful and compliant.

Proven Ad Creative and Landing Page Rules

The Following is Not Allowed or Forbidden to be promoted on Landing

1. Mobile vibration activity
2. Auto sound on pop-up / pop-under
3. Automatical Redirect
4. Auto downloading content
5. The promotion of Technical Support scam and other similar offers
6. Underage-looking performers are not permitted
7. Marketing materials that are protected by copyright and trademark laws
8. JS Alerts on popunders
9. Promote drugs
10. Fake Updates
11. Use of images and text in ad campaigns that include shock, abuse, or frightening content is strictly prohibited (e.g., injuries, blood, violence, disease consequences
12. Promote drugs
13. Fake video player, Fake play button
14. Fake download button (except if it leads to the download page of the product)
15. Any kind of closing, exit button, or fake elements
16. Fake calls/messages/notifications from the person if it no leads to exact person on creative
17. Fake mouse pointer
18. Aggressive flashing (hide creative) only after clicking visible + warning message that aggressive flashing
19. Deepfakes
20. Malware - Before submitting the URL we recommend checking it in Virustotal
21. Offensive or abusive content
22. Heavy ads (https://developer.chrome.com/blog/heavy-ad-interventions)
23. Scareware on the landing page and creatives

Scareware

Scareware tactics are not only unethical but also strictly prohibited in advertising. Below are specific examples of scareware tactics related to viruses, junk files, and device problems that are not allowed:

1. False Virus Alerts

• Example: "You may have 3 viruses. Click here to remove them."
• Reason: This statement induces fear by suggesting the device is infected, which is considered a scare tactic.

2. Fake System Warnings

• Example: "System warning: Remove junk files (~1.4 GB) immediately."
• Reason: Implying an urgent problem with the system to provoke immediate action is misleading and fear-inducing.

3. Deceptive Problem Notifications

• Example: "Update required to fix critical issues."
• Reason: This creates unnecessary panic about the need for immediate updates to avoid problems.

4. Misleading Performance Claims

• Example: "Run a scan to fix all the problems slowing down your PC."
• Reason: Suggesting that a simple scan can resolve all issues is both simplistic and intended to create undue concern.

5. Scary Device Health Statements

• Example: "Clear your Android memory to solve this problem and increase your phone’s speed."
• Reason: Using fear of performance loss to push for action is unethical.

6. Bogus Browser Errors

• Example: "Browser failed to load/open the video/page. Click here to fix."
• Reason: This statement creates a false sense of urgency to resolve an invented issue.

7. Alarmist Junk File Warnings

• Example: "Your system is clogged with junk files. Clean now!"
• Reason: This implies immediate harm or reduced functionality, which is designed to scare the user. Phony Device Problems Example: "Your device is at risk. Click here to solve the problem." Reason: Creating a non-existent risk to prompt action is a classic scareware tactic.

Conclusion: Adhering to TrafficStars' creative rules is crucial for running successful and compliant advertising campaigns. By following these guidelines, advertisers can ensure their creatives meet quality standards, avoid rejections, and deliver a positive experience for users. Use this knowledge to create compelling, compliant ads that drive results and maintain a strong advertising presence.