How to Protect Your Business from Google Spam Calls

There’s a new scam on the rise. Business owners are being targeted by callers who claim to be from Google regarding their Google Business Profiles.

The Google Business Profile (GBP) is a crucial tool for businesses, especially small businesses. It works to establish an online presence that puts businesses in front of customers seeking the products or services they provide. Unfortunately, scammers have found a way to exploit this by posing as Google representatives in an attempt to deceive business owners.

One common scenario involves receiving a call from someone claiming to be from Google, stating that there are issues with their Business Profile that need immediate attention. They might mention the need for urgent updates or improvements and ask for personal or financial information. It’s important to note that Google does not make unsolicited calls about your Business Profile, nor will they ever ask for money. The Google Business Profile is a free product/tool for businesses to use. Google provides a range of tools and services for businesses, many of which are free or have transparent pricing structures. If someone requests payment over the phone, it’s likely a scam.

Protect Yourself and Your Business

To protect yourself and your business from falling victim to these scams, consider the following precautions:

Verify the Caller’s Identity: If someone claims to be from Google, ask for their name, contact information, and a callback number. Legitimate Google representatives will provide this information. If you have doubts about the legitimacy of a call, hang up and independently verify the information. Contact Google through official channels to confirm the status of your Business Profile.

Be Wary: Google typically communicates with users through email or notifications within their Google accounts. Be cautious if someone initiates contact over the phone without prior communication. Unless you’ve contacted support for your profile, Google will not call you.

Never Share Personal Information: Google will never ask for sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card details, over the phone. Do not share any personal or financial information with these callers.

Report Suspicious Calls: If you receive a suspicious call, report the phone number and any other information you discover to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). This helps authorities track and address these fraudulent activities.

Remember, scammers constantly evolve their tactics, so stay informed and be vigilant. By being cautious and following these guidelines, you can protect your business and yourself from falling prey to scams related to your Google Business Profile.