How to install Google Ads in accordance with GDPR

Thanks to Google Ads (formerly Google AdWords), you can display advertisements to users based on your chosen criteria.
Google Ads provides an advanced conversion tracking system that enables you to monitor the effectiveness and ROI of your advertising campaigns in detail.
Because this data is subject to GDPR, conversion tracking must only take place with the user’s prior consent.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to configure Google Ads in compliance with the GDPR on a WordPress site using My Agile Privacy.

Part 1: Link Google Ads to Google Analytics 4

Note: You must have administrator rights for both your Google Ads account and your Google Analytics 4 property.

1. Go to Google Analytics and select the GA4 property you want to link.
2. Click Admin (gear icon) in the lower left corner.
3. In the Property column, select Product Links, then Google Ads Links.
4. Click the Link button.
5. Select the Google Ads account you want to link, then click Confirm and Next.
6. Adjust the link settings if needed, click Next, review your choices, and finally click Submit.

Part 2: Import conversions from GA4 to Google Ads

1. Go to Google Ads.
2. From the top menu, select Tools and Settings.
3. Under the Measurement section, choose Conversions.
4. Click + New conversion action.
5. Select Import.
6. Choose Google Analytics (GA4) – web configuration events.
7. Select the conversion events you wish to import (e.g., purchase, lead, etc.).
8. Click Import and continue to complete the process.

Part 3: Privacy configuration with My Agile Privacy

To be GDPR compliant, activate the "Cookie Shield" feature in My Agile Privacy:

• This feature automatically detects cookies and software installed on your site, including Google Ads and Google Analytics 4.
• Set the Shield to Learning mode and browse your website as usual.
• You will find the detected cookies listed under Cookie List in My Agile Privacy.

Part 4: Verifying Google Consent Mode v2

To ensure full compliance and proper Google Tag Manager operation, make sure the latest Google Consent Mode v2 is active and correctly configured on your site.
For details, refer to this guide: How to implement Consent Mode V2 on your website.

Final Check

Confirm that your imported conversions are displayed in the Google Ads conversions list.
Note: It may take a few hours for data to sync and appear correctly.

BONUS: My Agile Pixel

You can use Google Analytics 4 through our server-side solution, My Agile Pixel.
My Agile Pixel is the ideal solution to enhance your marketing campaigns, bypass iOS and AdBlocker restrictions, and maintain GDPR compliance.
Find out how to configure Google Analytics with My Agile Pixel.