In this case what should ad networks like Google do to make sure they are running ads for legit businesses? In your gun store example, the seller is relying on

In this case what should ad networks like Google do to make sure they are running ads for legit businesses? In your gun store example, the seller is relying on the government to provide any information that would disqualify a sale. Rarely is a gun shop going to deny a sale despite government approval unless there is suspicion of a crime happening. If these scam rehab clinics can show Google they are properly licensed by the state they reside in, then what else should Google be doing? Google is not a medical license board. The states need to make sure that any sort of rehab or medical facility is legit and using best practices. These clinics rely on insurance money coming in so insurance companies would definitely be interested in making sure that the clinics they are paying out to are using effective treatments. I could see Google having a clause stating that if any business advertises themselves as any sort of medical or rehab facility, that they provide documentation from the state that proves such. This should be the same with doctors, lawyers, notaries, professional engineers, or anyone that advertises themselves as something that requires an approval from the government. Despite Google making a lot of money off of dubious advertisements, if Google can verify that a business is properly licensed to do what they advertise, then Google shouldn't be at fault for any fraud that is being committed. If someone shoots someone unlawfully and the gun was purchased legally, the gun shop doesn't get in trouble.