The Google My Business local team is warning local businesses about some companies implying they are Google and unfairly taking advantage of businesses who don’t realize the service is available for free.
It has definitely been a problem where companies cold call businesses and trying to sell them their Google My Business listing. And because many business owners aren’t aware of how to get a local listing included in Google, they end up paying for what is often an overpriced and sub-par service.
Privacy and safety are of utmost importance at Google. When you have your business information online, this can be even more of a concern.
First and foremost, when you receive your verification code or PIN by mail, please do not share this number with anyone. It is a unique number generated just for you and your business to confirm that you are actually located at your stated address. Feel free to check out this page on how to get verified, and this page on what to do once you have received your code.
This is also likely in response to the scams we have also seen popping up where spammers are paying for location verifications, so they can add spam listings for a “verified” listing which in reality is simply a resident address.
Please remember, Google will never make phone calls offering to improve your ranking or manage your business information. There are many companies out there which would love to manage your local presence, but do know that Google will not be making this type of call to you. Should Google call you, it will typically come from our local area code–a US number beginning in a 650 area code. Additionally, Google would never call asking you for private information like your password. Please find more information on avoiding phone scams here.
Finally, Google My Business offers a variety of privacy controls for your convenience. Some of the more helpful items here would be things like adjusting your notifications and information on post sharing.
This is part of the scam that has been around for years, where companies either say they are from Google or heavily imply that they are. It is a good tip to check the area code, but if in doubt, they should be able to confirm they are from Google with information they give you – remember you shouldn’t be giving them information such as your password for “confirmation” or “verification”.
Taking the right precautions with your online presence is incredibly important, and we hope that these tips will help you to do just that! Should you have any questions about privacy (or anything else relating to your Google My Business page), don’t hesitate to contact us for support!
What is your best tip for businesses online with regard to safety and privacy? Feel free to contribute to the discussion and share your knowledge by commenting below!
Jennifer Slegg
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