For many small businesses, a Google Business Profile is one of their most valuable marketing tools. It helps customers find your business, call you, visit your website, and read reviews. Unfortunately, scammers know this, and some actively target business listings to take control of them.
One common tactic is requesting access to your Google Business Profile. If an access request is approved by mistake, someone else may gain control of your listing. Other scammers use fake emails, texts, or phone calls that appear to come from Google in an attempt to steal your login information. Some even submit changes to your business details, such as your phone number or website address.
Once a scammer gains access, they can redirect calls, change contact information, reply to reviews as your company, or lock you out of your own profile. In some cases, business owners do not realize there is a problem until customers start complaining or business inquiries suddenly slow down.
The best protection is simple. Turn on 2-Step Verification for the Google account connected to your business profile, manage your listing by signing in directly through Google instead of email links, and review any access requests carefully before approving them.
Keep in mind that Google will never ask for your password, verification code, or payment to maintain your Business Profile. If someone does, it’s likely a scam.
Not sure who has access to your Google Business Profile or whether it’s properly secured? Contact Wingman IT Services. We can help protect your account and make sure customers can always find the right information about your business.