How to Recover from a Counterfeit Account Suspension
Recover from a Google Merchant Center counterfeit suspension. Audit branding, document authentic sourcing, submit appeal with supplier invoices.
What this means
Account-wide counterfeit suspensions hit categories Google polices aggressively: fragrance, fashion, electronics, watches, jewelry. The trigger is typically brand names in titles without authorized-reseller status, manufacturer press-kit images used without permission, or "inspired by" framing across product descriptions.
How to fix it
- 1
Review the suspension reason
The email cites "counterfeit goods" but rarely names the specific products. Note any sub-categories (fragrance, fashion, etc.) — those narrow the audit.
- 2
Audit titles for unauthorized brand names
Export products CSV. Search Title column for any brand name. Flag any without documented authorization. Rewrite or remove.
- 3
Pull supplier invoices proving authenticity
Gather invoices, distributor agreements, authorization letters, and any documentation showing your products are genuinely sourced. This is the most-weighted appeal evidence.
- 4
Rewrite descriptions to remove brand-comparison language
Remove "inspired by," "alternative to," "comparable to," "dupe," "replica." Describe products on their own merits.
- 5
Remove products you can't verify
If a SKU has no supplier documentation and contains brand language, remove it. Don't appeal with unverifiable products in the catalog — it weakens the entire appeal.
- 6
Submit appeal with documentation
Use the appeal template. Attach supplier invoices and authorization letters. Submit through Google Ads or Merchant Center support — counterfeit appeals can take 7-14 days.
Related fixes
Related reading
FAQ
Which categories see counterfeit suspensions most?+
Fragrance, designer fashion, watches, jewelry, electronics accessories. Anything where dupes and replicas are common in the broader market.
What documentation should I submit with my appeal?+
Supplier invoices, distributor agreements, authorized-reseller letters, and any communications with the brand directly. Multiple sources of authentication strengthen the appeal.
Can I sell branded products without authorized-reseller status?+
Some categories require it (luxury fragrance, watches). Others tolerate authentic resale with documentation. When in doubt, get authorization in writing.
How long does a counterfeit appeal take?+
7-14 business days typically. Longer than misrepresentation appeals because brand verification is involved.
Should I appeal through GMC or Google Ads?+
If the suspension is on the Merchant Center side, appeal through GMC. If Google Ads is also suspended, appeal there separately. The systems are separate.
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