In a digital age where communication is crucial, scammers are finding new ways to exploit business owners. Recent data from Hiya, a company specializing in phone fraud and spam tracking, highlights an alarming trend: Google Business Profile robocall scams are on the rise in 2023. This surge in fraudulent activity underscores the importance of vigilance and awareness to safeguard your business.
The Scam: Preying on Business Owners
Scammers are using cunning tactics to target unsuspecting business owners. These fraudsters often pose as “Google partners,” contacting businesses to offer assistance with their Google Business Profiles.
The catch? They demand a fee for services that are otherwise free. From claims that your profile needs verification to promises of enhanced visibility, these scams are designed to deceive and exploit.
The Numbers Speak
The scale of this issue is staggering. According to Hiya, more than 2,000 Google Business Profile scams were reported every month this year through July. That adds up to over 17,000 reported cases. This alarming statistic sheds light on the urgency of understanding and combating these scams.
Identifying the Scam
How do you spot these scams? Here are two common robocall messages that have duped countless business owners:
- “Business owners, your Google Business Profile has not been registered with Google. Please press 1 to be transferred to a business listing specialist to assist you in registering your Google Business Profile, or press 2 to be placed on the do not call list.”
- “Hello. We’re calling from Online Listing Group because your Google Business listing needs attention. If your listing is not showing up properly, customers will not be able to contact you or find your location. If you are the business owner, press 1 now to verify or update your business. Press 9 to opt out.”
States Affected
The scam isn’t uniform across the U.S. Four states—Kentucky, Rhode Island, Hawaii, and Wyoming—report the highest incidence of these Google scam calls per person. Falling victim to such schemes can disrupt your business operations and tarnish your reputation.
Google’s Response
Google is aware of these scams and takes them seriously. In fact, Google filed a lawsuit against a company called G Verifier in response to these fraudulent practices. G Verifier was allegedly charging business owners for services that are inherently free, such as Google Business Profiles and reviews.
Protection and Action
To shield yourself from falling prey to such scams, it’s crucial to be informed. Remember that Google Business Profiles are free, and Google will never demand payment for such services. If you encounter suspicious calls, it’s advisable to refer to Google’s official guidelines for protecting against fraudulent calls. These guidelines emphasize Google’s commitment to consumer protection and vigilance against scams.
Take Action: Safeguard Your Business
With the prevalence of Google Business Profile robocall scams, being proactive is essential. Protect your business by staying informed, spreading awareness, and reporting any suspicious activity. If you suspect you’ve encountered a scam, don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance and support.
If you’re seeking legal assistance or advice on matters related to scams, fraudulent calls, or any legal concerns, our experienced team is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward safeguarding your business.
Sources:
- Google Business Profile robocall scams are increasing | Search Engine Land
- Google files lawsuit against company falsely promising Page 1 rankings | Search Engine Land
- COMPLAINT (Google v. G Verifier) | storage.googleapis.com