Running Google ad grant Ads (Search) in VPN niche — Almost ZERO impressions, need help

[Corene Metz]

Hey guys,

I’m running a Google Ads campaign in the VPN / public WiFi security niche, and I’m honestly stuck.

Here’s the situation:

• Campaign type: Search
• Bidding: Tried Maximize Clicks (also tested Maximize Conversions briefly)
• Daily budget: $100–$150
• Location: Tier 1 countries
• Keywords: High intent (ex: "vpn for hotel wifi", "best vpn for public wifi", "secure hotel internet vpn")
• Ads: Decent headlines & descriptions (clear benefit + CTA like "Protect your data now")
• Landing page: Clean affiliate page (fast, mobile optimized, strong CTA buttons)

The problem:

Almost NO impressions
Google barely spends ($2–$5 max)
CTR obviously zero because no traffic
Keywords are not getting volume even though they should

What I already checked:

• Campaign is enabled
• Keywords are eligible (no disapproval)
• No major policy violations
• Budget is not limited
• Bids are automatic
• Conversion tracking is set (still testing)

I also noticed:

• Sometimes campaign shows "Eligible (limited)"
• No clear reason why impressions are blocked

My questions:

1. What usually causes VERY low impressions in Search campaigns like this?
2. Is it possible Google is restricting delivery due to niche (VPN/security)?
3. Could it be keyword match types / structure issue?
4. Should I switch to broad match or manual CPC to force traffic?
5. Is this a Quality Score / trust issue with new account?

I feel like everything is “correct” but Google just refuses to deliver.

Anyone experienced this with affiliate / VPN offers?

Would really appreciate real insights — I’m clearly missing something.

Thanks.