What Are Google Listing Scams?
Recently, many business owners have reported receiving suspicious phone calls claiming to verify their Google listings. These scam calls are often made by illegitimate companies pretending to be associated with Google, with the intent of collecting sensitive information or even hijacking your business profile. Understanding how these scammers operate and what to do if you receive one of these calls is crucial for safeguarding your business.
Who Are They?
These scam companies often pose as official Google representatives or third-party organizations authorized by Google. They claim to offer services such as verifying, optimizing, or updating your Google My Business profile. However, in reality, they have no affiliation with Google and aim to deceive business owners into paying for unnecessary services or compromising their listing.
Several companies have been identified for participating in Google listing phone scams. These entities often pose as official Google representatives, making unsolicited calls to business owners to coerce them into paying for unnecessary services or revealing sensitive information. Here’s a list of some of the known companies and groups involved:
- G Verifier: Named in a lawsuit filed by Google, G Verifier was accused of making fraudulent calls to business owners, claiming they needed to pay to verify or validate their Google listings. They charged business owners around $99 for verification services that are otherwise free through Google (Hiya Voice).
- Online Listing Group: Frequently cited in scam reports, this group uses automated robocalls to claim that business listings are in jeopardy of being suspended. They offer to verify or boost listings for a fee, which is misleading as Google provides these services for free.
- PDS (Potential Data Solutions): This entity often uses vague communication to pressure business owners into paying fees for fixing or optimizing Google listings. Business owners from multiple states have reported interactions with PDS, which charges one-time fees for verification, a service Google does not charge for.
- “James” and “John” Scams: These names are often used by scammers pretending to be Google representatives, pressuring business owners to verify their listing through payment. They have been known to get aggressive when business owners question their legitimacy.
- Various Robocall Numbers: Several numbers frequently used in these scams include 1-209-703-1316, 1-254-348-8595, and 1-219-706-7919. These numbers are often spoofed to appear as legitimate Google support lines (The YouMail Blog).
What Do They Do?
These scammers use various tactics, such as:
- Claiming your Google listing will be deactivated if you don’t take immediate action.
- Offering to rank your business higher on Google search results in exchange for a fee.
- Requesting access to your Google My Business account or asking for confidential information.
Their ultimate goal is to gain control over your business listing, which can lead to loss of your business profile, potential harm to your reputation, and unauthorized changes to your information.
How to Recognize Their Call
Recognizing scam calls can help you take action before any damage is done. Here are key indicators of scam calls:
- Caller Identity: Scammers often use vague phrases like “Google Support” or “Business Listing Verification Team.” Real Google representatives will introduce themselves with their full name and verify your identity before proceeding.
- Spoofed Caller ID: Some scammers use technology to manipulate their caller ID, making it appear as if the call is coming from Google’s official number. Always verify by asking for details and cross-checking directly with Google’s support.
- Pressure Tactics: These calls are typically high-pressure, urging you to act immediately to avoid deactivation or loss of your listing. Legitimate calls from Google will not pressure you to take immediate action over the phone.
- Request for Payment: Google does not charge for listing verification or updating services. Any caller demanding payment or requesting credit card information is not legitimate.
- Unsolicited Call for Business Listing Verification: If you receive an unsolicited call about your Google listing without having contacted Google first, it is most likely a scam. Google will only contact you regarding your listing if you have initiated a request or if there are known issues.
Samples of Google Business Profile scam calls
1. Google Business Verification
Your Google Business Profile appears unregistered in our system. To speak with a listing specialist and complete your registration, press 1 now. If you prefer not to receive further calls, press 2 to be placed on our Do Not Call list.
Hello, this is Online Listing Group calling. Your Google Business listing needs immediate attention. If your listing is not displaying correctly, customers may have difficulty finding your location or contacting you. Press 1 now to verify or update your business details. If you are not interested, press 9 to opt out and be removed from future notifications.
2. Automated Verification Call
Our records show that your Google business listing may be suspended or not verified through Google. This can cause customers searching for your services to not be able to find your business online. Press one so we can quickly check the status of your Google business listing. This will only take a few minutes. Press nine if you wish to be removed from this list. Thank you and have a nice day.
3. Threat of Listing Removal Call
Hello, we are calling from Google Business Listings. Your listing has been flagged for removal because it hasn’t been verified. To avoid losing your business listing please verify your business and prevent deactivation.
4. Impersonating Google Call
Hi, I’m calling on behalf of Google’s Business Profile team. Your business listing is not showing up properly on Google Search and Maps, and customers may not be able to find you. We need to update your information in order to ensure you remain visible. There’s a one-time fee of $99 to complete the verification. Can I go ahead and process that for you now?
5. Urgency and Payment Request Call
Hello, I’m James from Google’s Business Department. Your listing is at risk of being removed unless you verify your information today. To continue appearing in search results, a payment of $199 is required for validation. This is a limited-time offer, so please provide your payment details now to avoid disruption.
5. Fake Google Partnership Call
Good afternoon, we are an official Google partner helping the listings in your area. Your profile appears incomplete, and Google could mark it as inactive if it’s not updated. We’re offering a discounted service to boost your ranking and protect your business from being flagged. This service costs only $149 for the year. Would you like to proceed?
What You Should and Should Not Do
Knowing what to do (and what not to do) when receiving these calls can prevent you from falling victim to these scams.
Do:
- Hang Up Immediately: If you suspect that the call is a scam, end the conversation right away. Do not engage further, as scammers can use manipulation tactics to extract more information.
- Log in to Your Google My Business Account: Instead of relying on the information provided over the phone, log in directly to your Google My Business account to check for any alerts or issues with your listing.
- Verify the Caller Independently: Contact Google support directly through their official website or helpline to confirm whether the call was legitimate. Do not use any contact information provided by the caller.
- Document the Details: Record the caller’s phone number, name (if provided), and the nature of the call. This information will be useful when reporting the scam.
Do Not Do:
- Do Not Share Sensitive Information: Never provide your Google account credentials, business information, or any financial details over the phone.
- Do Not Make Payment: If the caller requests a fee for services, hang up immediately. Google does not charge for listing verification or account maintenance.
- Do Not Allow Remote Access: Some scammers may ask to remotely access your computer or business account. Never allow access unless you are certain about the caller’s identity and legitimacy.
What to Do if They Took Your Google Listing
If scammers have gained access to your Google Business Profile, it’s essential to act quickly to regain control and minimize any potential damage. Here’s what you need to do:
- Notify Google Immediately
Report the issue directly to Google by visiting the Google Business Profile Help Center and following these steps:- Scroll down to the “Contact Us” section.
- Click on “Request Ownership of a Business Profile.”
- Provide the necessary details, including proof of ownership and documentation of unauthorized changes.
- Google’s support team will review your request and help you reclaim your listing.
- Reclaim Your Business Profile
Use the Request Ownership of a Business Profile form to start the reclaiming process. Google will notify the current manager and allow them a set period to respond. If they don’t reply, ownership will be transferred back to you. - Check for Unauthorized Changes
After regaining access, review your business information thoroughly. Look for changes in:- Business name, address, and contact details.
- Operating hours and business category.
- User permissions—remove any unknown or unauthorized users.
- Secure Your Account
Update your Google account security by enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) and choosing a strong, unique password. This will help prevent future unauthorized access. - Report the Incident to Google
Use the Google Business Profile Scam Report Form to provide details about the incident. Include any information about the scammer, such as phone numbers, emails, or the company name they used.
By taking these steps, you can regain control of your Google Business Profile and protect it from further unauthorized access. For more detailed instructions, visit Google’s official Help Center page.
Contact Us If You Need Help
If you’re facing issues with your Google Business Profile or need further assistance, we’re here to support you. Our team at Parrot Branding is ready to answer your questions and guide you through any branding or business profile challenges. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for personalized help and advice.