# Incorrect default signal (\`ad\_storage\`)

#### Description

Google Consent Mode is active, but the `default` signal sets an incorrect value for `ad_storage`. This parameter controls whether analytics-related cookies are enabled before the user gives consent. If the value is anything other than `"denied"`, Google may begin tracking before consent is obtained, which **defeats the purpose of Consent Mode**.

#### Possible causes

1. If your CMP is **not integrated via Google Tag Manager**:
   * A hardcoded `gtag` command like:

     ```js
     gtag('consent', 'default', {
       ad_storage: 'granted'
     });
     ```

     is present somewhere in your code or injected by another script.
2. If your CMP **is integrated via Google Tag Manager**:
   * The `ad_storage` field in the **Default Consent Mode Settings** is not set to `"denied"` ;
   * Another tag in GTM may override the value with a different `gtag` call.

#### What to check

**If you are not using Google Tag Manager:**

* **Search your codebase** for any `gtag('consent', 'default', {...})` command;
* Remove or modify any line that sets `ad_storage` to `"granted"` or another incorrect value.

**If you are using Google Tag Manager:**

* Open your CMP tag (e.g., **ABconsent – Sirdata CMP**) ;
* In the **"Default Consent Mode Settings"** section, make sure `Analytics` is set this way:

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