Ads.txt: Protect Your Ad Revenue With Official Sellers

What is Ads.txt?

Ads.txt (Authorized Digital Sellers) is an industry-standard initiative developed by the IAB Tech Lab to enhance transparency in programmatic advertising. It allows publishers to publicly list approved ad sellers, ensuring that only legitimate partners can sell their ad inventory.

By implementing Ads.txt, publishers can prevent unauthorized reselling, protect their revenue, and build advertiser trust by guaranteeing that ads are purchased from verified sources. It’s a simple yet powerful tool to combat ad fraud and create a more secure digital advertising ecosystem.

Why is Ads.txt Important?

🚨 The Problem: Unauthorized resellers can misrepresent your ad inventory, leading to revenue leakage, reduced advertiser trust, and overall market inefficiencies.

Without Ads.txt, bad actors can exploit the system by selling counterfeit inventory under your name, damaging your reputation and diminishing your earnings.

✅ The Solution: Ads.txt serves as a protective measure, ensuring that only officially authorized partners can sell your ad space.

By implementing Ads.txt, publishers gain greater control over their inventory, enhance transparency in the supply chain, and create a more trustworthy environment for advertisers.

How Does Ads.txt Work?

Ads.txt is a simple text file stored in your website’s root directory (example.com/ads.txt). It lists trusted ad platforms that are authorized to sell your inventory.

Example Ads.txt File:

example.com, 12345, DIRECT, AEC242DFA03248 example.com, 67890, RESELLER, B4E68D7C20D3F2

🔹 Authorized Seller – The verified partner selling your ads.
🔹 Publisher ID – Your unique account identifier on the ad platform.
🔹 Type (DIRECT/RESELLER) – Direct seller or reseller of your inventory.
🔹 Platform ID – The SSP/DSP identifier in the IAB Ads.txt Registry.

Key Benefits of Ads.txt

✅ Stronger Security – Blocks unauthorized resellers and protects your inventory.
✅ Increased Transparency – Advertisers can verify legitimate sellers.
✅ Higher Revenue – Ensures ad spend goes through trusted channels.

How to Set Up Ads.txt?

1. Download your Ads.txt file from your ad platform.

2. Upload it to your website’s root directory (example.com/ads.txt).

3. Test accessibility by visiting example.com/ads.txt in a browser.

4. Keep it updated as your list of partners evolves.

FAQs

🔹 What if I don’t use Ads.txt?
Your inventory may be less attractive to advertisers, reducing demand and earnings.

🔹 How often should I update Ads.txt?
At least every few months to maintain accuracy as partnerships change.

🔹 Where do I find my Ads.txt file?
Your ad platform provides it, typically in the Settings or Billing section.

🔹 Does Ads.txt impact SEO?
No, Ads.txt does not affect search rankings or website performance.

By using Ads.txt, publishers take control of their inventory, boost advertiser confidence, and secure their revenue streams. Implement it today to ensure a safer, more profitable ad ecosystem!