Getting a “Misrepresentation” suspension from Google Merchant Center can feel overwhelming. Your account is halted, the reason seems vague, and you just want to get your products back in Google Shopping.
This guide breaks down exactly what you need to do, step by step. We will cover the common reasons for this suspension and show you how to fix each one to get your store reinstated.
What does “Misrepresentation” mean on Google Merchant Center?
Google uses “Misrepresentation” when it believes your online store might be misleading to customers. This doesn’t always mean you are trying to scam people. Often, it means your website is missing key information, looks unprofessional, or doesn’t clearly explain how you do business.
Google needs to trust that shoppers will have a safe and transparent experience when they click from a Google ad to your store.
How to check your suspension details
- Log in to your Google Merchant Center account.
- Go to the Product issues or Diagnostics page.
- Here, you will see the exact suspension notice. It should list “Misrepresentation” as the reason and often provides a general checklist of what to fix.
Tip: Keep this page open. We will address every point on that list.
How to make your business identity clear and transparent
Customers need to know who they are buying from. A lack of clear business information is a major red flag for Google.
- Create a comprehensive ‘About Us’ page
Tell your story. Who are you? Why did you start this business? What is your mission? This builds trust and humanizes your brand. - Set up a clear ‘Contact Us’ page
Include a valid business email address, a physical address (or P.O. Box if you are a home-based business), and a phone number if possible. Using only a generic contact form can look suspicious. - Be transparent on your landing page
Your homepage should clearly state your brand name and what you sell.
How to set up your business policies correctly
Missing or unclear store policies are a very common reason for suspensions.
- Refund and Return Policy: Easy to find and detailed. Include how long customers have to return items, item conditions, and who pays for return shipping.
- Privacy Policy: Mandatory. Explains how you collect, use, and protect customer data.
- Terms of Service: Outlines the rules for using your website and making purchases.
- Shipping Policy: Clearly list processing times, shipping methods, costs, and delivery estimates.
Tip: Make sure these pages are linked in your website’s main menu or footer.
How to build your online reputation
New stores often lack a history, so you need to actively build signals of trust.
- Collect and display customer reviews
Use a Shopify app like Judge.me, Loox, or Yotpo to automatically request reviews from customers after they receive their order. Display reviews prominently on product pages. - Add trust badges to your site
Show security badges like “SSL Secured” or “Secure Checkout” to reassure customers. Highlight any certifications or press features.
How to improve your website’s professional design
Your store needs to look legitimate and function well.
- Use a professional, clean theme
Avoid cluttered designs. Ensure your site is easy to navigate on both desktop and mobile. - Enable your SSL certificate
On Shopify, this is usually automatic. Check that your website URL starts withhttps://and nothttp://. A padlock icon should appear in the browser bar. - Use high-quality product images
Blurry or stolen images look unprofessional. Use multiple images from different angles.
How to match your Merchant Center and store product data
Inconsistencies between what you submit to Google and what is on your site will cause problems.
- Check product titles and descriptions
The information in your Merchant Center feed must exactly match what is on the corresponding product page. - Verify prices and availability
Price and stock status in your feed must be the same as on your live site. - Ensure landing pages are correct
Each product in your feed must link directly to its own product page, not your homepage.
Final steps to get your suspension reviewed
After you have fixed every single issue on your website, it is time to request a review.
- Double-check everything
Go through each point in this guide and on Google’s checklist again. - Submit your appeal
In your Google Merchant Center account, find the Request Review button. You will be able to write a message. - Be specific in your appeal
Do not just say “I fixed it.” Briefly explain the changes you made.
Example: “I have updated my website to include clear Contact Us, Shipping, Refund, and Privacy Policy pages. I have also added customer reviews and trust badges to build transparency. All product data is now consistent between my store and Merchant Center.”
