Images Next to Adsense Ads
Until recently, having 4 images next to 4 links like this are no longer allowed. This was a common technique used by adsense publishers to increase click through.
Google has clarified their policy.
Encouraging clicks
In order to ensure a good experience for users and advertisers, publishers may not request that users click the ads on their sites or rely on deceptive implementation methods to obtain clicks. Publishers participating in the AdSense program:
- May not encourage users to click the Google ads by using phrases such as “click the ads,” “support us,” “visit these links,” or other similar language
- May not direct user attention to the ads via arrows or other graphical gimmicks
- May not place misleading images alongside individual ads
- May not promote sites displaying ads through unsolicited mass emails or unwanted advertisements on third-party websites
- May not compensate users for viewing ads or performing searches, or promise compensation to a third party for such behavior
- May not place misleading labels above Google ad units - for instance, ads may be labeled “Sponsored Links” but not “Favorite Sites”
- Copied for Program Policies 5/29/2007
Since the adsense publisher has limited control over what ads are displayed, google wants to avoid having confusing or inappropriate images next to the ads.   This is clearly demonstrated in the example above, ice cream images next to home security ads.
