Creating an Amazon listing may seem straightforward, but one of the most common pitfalls sellers face is the use of restricted keywords. Amazon has strict guidelines regarding the words and phrases allowed in product titles, descriptions, and backend search terms. For the use of restricted keywords Amazon will penalize businesses, leading to listing suppression or even account suspension.
In this guide, we’ll explore what restricted keywords are, why they matter, and how you can ensure your listings stay compliant with Amazon's policies. Read till the end for the Amazon restricted keyword list!
What Are Restricted Keywords on Amazon?
Restricted keywords are specific words or phrases that Amazon prohibits sellers from using in their product listings. These can include medical claims, offensive terms, unfair product promotions, or misleading language that violates Amazon’s guidelines.
Amazon restricts these terms to maintain a fair marketplace, ensure customer safety, and prevent false advertising. Including restricted words on Amazon listings can result in your listing getting taken down or even immediate suppression, so it’s crucial to be aware of and avoid them.
Which Parts of the Listing Get Indexed for Keywords?
It's safe to assume that any copy in your listing must adhere to the Amazon rules. To break it down, avoid using restricted phrases in:
- Titles
- Bullet points
- Product descriptions
- A+ descriptions
- Brand stories
- FAQs
Types of Amazon Restricted Words
There are four main categories of restricted keywords that Amazon sellers need to be aware of. Each category covers specific rules designed to protect customers and maintain the integrity of the marketplace. There may be other categories, such as offensive words, and the Amazon restricted word list is ever-growing, but we focus on the most common ones.
False Advertising
False advertising keywords are those that exaggerate or misrepresent a product’s features or performance. For example, using terms like “best” or “guaranteed results” without evidence can lead to a violation. Promotional terms like “sale“ or “special offer“ also fall under this category.
Unsupported Claims
Keywords that make unsupported claims, such as “FDA approved,” “cures [condition],” or “biodegradable,“ are restricted unless there is verified documentation to back them up. Amazon prevents sellers from making claims that could mislead buyers or create false expectations about a product’s effectiveness.
Medical Terms
Amazon prohibits the use of medical terms like the names of diseases in listings unless the product is classified as a medical device or drug and is approved by the FBA. This could fall under the “Unsupported claims“ category, but the list of illnesses alone is so long that it deserves a separate section.
Prohibited Products
Some products are outright prohibited on Amazon, and using keywords related to them—such as “CBD” or “firearms”—can result in listing removal. Amazon's guidelines clearly define which products are allowed to be sold. To stay updated, check for new banned items to know Amazon new restricted words.
What Are the Penalties for Using Restricted Words?
For using restricted words Amazon can take severe actions against your listing or account.
The most immediate penalty is listing suppression, where your product will no longer appear in search results. Repeated violations can result in account suspension or even permanent deactivation. Additionally, sellers may face delayed payments and increased scrutiny from Amazon. To avoid these penalties, it’s crucial to follow Amazon’s keyword guidelines carefully.
