Google scams: fake Google calls, listing threats and scam ads
By Pan · Updated
The myth
A 'Google Partner' who calls out of the blue can protect your listing or get you to the top.
The truth
Google doesn't robocall business owners to verify, fix or 'protect' a Business Profile. A call that says your listing will be suspended unless you act now is a reseller or an outright scam.
Your Business Profile is free, and verification happens inside your own Google account. You never need a stranger's help, or a payment, to keep it.
Scam ads follow the same script: urgency, a borrowed badge, then a payment. Some imitate Google itself or a business you trust. If an ad or a caller wants money to fix something with Google, stop.
Check this yourself
- Sign in to your Business Profile yourself at business.google.com, not through a link in an email or text.
- Open Business Profile settings → People and access. Remove anyone you don't recognize.
- If a caller says they're from Google, hang up and check your profile. Nothing urgent will be waiting.
What I'd do in your shoes
- Hang up on unsolicited 'Google' calls. Don't press 1.
- Own your Business Profile with your own email, and keep the list of managers short.
- Report scam calls and ads. The FTC takes reports at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, and every Google ad has a menu to report it.
Questions
Does Google ever call businesses?
Google's own reps may contact advertisers who already spend with them. They won't threaten your listing, charge you to keep it, or promise rankings.
Is my Google Business Profile free?
Yes. Creating and keeping one costs nothing. Anyone charging to keep it 'active' is selling you something you already have.
I already paid one of these callers. What now?
Call your card company and dispute the charge. Change your Google password, then check who has access to your Business Profile.
Want me to look at yours?
Come to a free workshop, or book a 25-minute straight-talk call.
Read next
- Paying for junk clicksTwo default settings can send a search budget to sites and apps nobody chose.
- Who owns your ad account?If the agency owns it, they own your history. Leave and you start from zero.
Running a business nearby? See local SEO in Oceanside or across San Diego County. Or browse all the Truth pages.