A US federal judge has ruled that Google illegally maintained a monopoly in digital advertising by manipulating ad tech and exchanges.
Judge Leonie Brinkema said Google tied its ad server and exchange systems to block competition and boost profits for over a decade.
The Justice Department argued that Google controlled key parts of the online advertising chain—where ads are placed, bought, and sold.
Brinkema’s decision highlighted Google’s integration of its ad services, which made it hard for rivals and publishers to compete fairly.
The judge said Google imposed anticompetitive rules, removing useful features and locking customers into its system without fair alternatives.
Google’s ad empire grew from key acquisitions like DoubleClick in 2008, which gave it more power across the advertising ecosystem.
This is the second time in less than a year that a judge found Google had abused monopoly power to crush competition.
The ruling follows a previous decision in August where Google’s search engine was judged to suppress innovation and block rivals.
Google denied wrongdoing and said it will appeal, claiming publishers freely choose its tools for their affordability and effectiveness.
The company argued that the digital ad market remains competitive, with major rivals like Meta, Amazon, and Microsoft.
A penalty phase will follow later this year, where the court may order drastic changes, including the possible sale of Chrome.
Hearings in a separate case could see more remedies imposed as legal battles with US authorities continue into future years.
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