Google has declared war on anyone using an ad-blocker on YouTube, violating the platform’s terms of use. Technically, Google is looking for ways to curb the use of these tools when users try to watch any of the platform’s videos.

For several weeks, Google has been putting the squeeze on Internet users using ad-blocking software. These types of software generally take the form of a browser extension that enables users to bypass the (many) ads featured on YouTube. Google’s aim is to persuade users to accept a free model, but with advertising, or to switch to its paid YouTube Premium offer, for RM17.90 a month.

On the web page about its policy on ads shown on YouTube, Google clearly explains that users must agree to view them in order to take advantage of its free offer, and warns those using ad-blocking software: “If you use ad-blockers, we’ll ask you to allow ads on YouTube or sign up for YouTube Premium. If you continue to use ad blockers, we may block your video playback.”

On the same page, Google also explains how to authorise ad delivery, regardless of the blocker used - AdBlock, AdBlock Plus, uBlock Origin etc.

Depending on the browser and extension installed, many users with ad-blockers have recently found themselves unable to play YouTube videos properly, as they instantly jump from beginning to end. Another “trick” found by Google to interfere with the viewing of its videos without going through the advertising process is the insertion of advertising sequences directly via YouTube’s servers into the main video stream.

In any case, this is what more and more users are reporting on social networks, with the result that video timestamps are significantly altered. At the same time, other users are not reporting any noticeable interference. It seems that Google and the publishers of these ad-blocking tools are currently engaged in a merciless technological battle.

 - AFP Relaxnews