Fraud Surge Threatens Businesses' Google Listings
Local SEO specialist Ben Fisher has raised alarm about a surge in fraudulent ownership requests for Google Business Profiles. This follows reports from other SEOs of an increase in fake claims, highlighting a growing threat to businesses' online presence.
Fraudsters are exploiting vulnerabilities in the platform to gain control over businesses' Google Business Profiles. Accepting a fake claim could lead to the loss of the listing or inaccurate information, potentially causing significant harm to the business.
To protect their online presence, businesses are advised to keep their listings up-to-date and accurate. It's crucial to be vigilant against online scams and never grant access to untrusted individuals. Always validate the identity of the person making the request before accepting any ownership changes.
The recent increase in fake ownership claims on Google Business Profiles is a serious concern. Business owners and local SEOs must stay alert and follow best practices to safeguard their online listings. Google is urged to address these platform vulnerabilities promptly to prevent further misuse.
