How to Configure the Google Ads Feed
Learn how to use the Google Ads Feed in DigitalStakeout to monitor competitive ads, threat actor promotions, or brand impersonation across Google search.
How to Configure the Google Ads Feed
The Google Ads Feed monitors search-based advertisements on Google tied to specific keywords. It is used to track competitor messaging, detect brand impersonation, or uncover scam and phishing campaigns promoted via paid ads.
Use Cases
- 🛡️ Threat Detection — Uncover malicious or fraudulent ads impersonating brands
- 📈 Competitive Intel — Track ad messaging and positioning from industry players
- 💰 Ad Strategy Optimization — Analyze which terms trigger ads and where you rank
- 🔎 Market Monitoring — Surface new market entrants and campaign trends
Setting Up a Google Ads Monitor
1. Identify Your Targets
Decide which keywords or phrases you want to track ads for. These might include:
- Brand names
- Product keywords
- Industry terms
- Threat actor aliases
2. Configure the Feed
| Field | Description |
|---|---|
| Status | Enable or disable monitoring |
| Expires On | Optional expiration date for the feed |
| Monitor Name | Label for internal identification and search |
| Use Case | Choose intent (e.g., Brand Protection, Ad Intelligence) |
| Tags | Add project, region, or topic tags |
| Translate on Add | Automatically translate non-English ads |
| Send Data To | Define where feed output should be routed inside XTI |
3. Define Your Keywords
- Primary Keywords — Required words or phrases that must be in the ad
- Must Contain — Additional words to improve precision
- Must Not Contain — Exclude generic or irrelevant ad patterns
- Ignore Domains — Filter out ads from specific sources if needed
Monitoring Workflow
- The feed continuously collects and indexes ad results from Google search
- You’ll receive entries in your console showing:
- Headline, description, display URL
- Keyword match context
- Time of appearance
- Use filters or tags to prioritize what matters
Best Practices
- Focus on high-intent keywords to avoid excessive noise
- Monitor impersonation tactics like “support,” “login,” or “reset password” variations
- Combine with Keyword Feed or Presence Feed for wider brand surveillance
- Review daily to stay ahead of changes in the ad landscape
Example Scenarios
- Detect a phishing campaign using fake support ads like “brandname account login”
- Analyze a competitor’s ad copy targeting your product keywords
- Spot threat actors buying ad space to promote malware-laced downloads
- Monitor political or misinformation-themed ads tied to emerging search trends
Learn more about coverage and use cases at the
Google Ads Feed product page.
Updated about 23 hours ago