Were you only trying to open a Gmail account, or were you also wanting to create a Google+ profile? A Gmail account without a Google Profile will not have the same restrictions as a Google+ Profile.
Any provider of any service can create policies as guidelines for the use of the service. In the case of Google+, Google established the Names Policy that applies to Google+ Profiles. When providers are servicing millions of people, they will use procedures that are efficient, yet sometimes result in false positives.
Anyone who is using their real name on a Google+ profile, and is challenged by Google's automated system, has the opportunity to appeal. |