How to Spot Fake Google Business Profile Verification Calls Targeting Australian Small Businesses

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to Spot Fake Google Business Profile Verification Calls Targeting Australian Small Businesses. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

Google Business Profile verification scams are increasingly targeting small businesses across Australia. Fraudsters call claiming to be from Google and request payment or sensitive account details to "verify" or "fix" your Business Profile listing. Google does not call businesses to verify profiles, and legitimate verification is handled entirely through your Google Business Profile account. This article explains how to spot these fake calls and protect your business.

Recognise the Warning Signs

• The caller claims to be from "Google" or "Google Maps" and says your Business Profile is unverified, suspended, or at risk of removal.
• They demand immediate payment via credit card, bank transfer, or gift cards to complete verification.
• They ask for your Google account password, two-factor authentication code, or a verification code sent to your phone.
• They use high-pressure tactics, claiming your listing will be deleted within 24 or 48 hours if you do not act immediately.
• The caller ID shows a local Australian number, but the caller cannot provide specific details about your business or Google account.

Verify Your Business Profile Legitimately

1. Open your web browser and go to https://business.google.com.
2. Sign in with the Google account associated with your business.
3. Select your business location from the dashboard.
4. Check the Verification status in the left-hand menu or under your business profile information.
5. If verification is required, follow the on-screen prompts to request a postcard, phone call, or email verification sent directly by Google.

Google sends verification codes via postcard to your business address, or occasionally by automated phone call or email. Google staff will never call you unsolicited to ask for that code.

If You Have Already Shared Information

1. Sign in to your Google Account at https://myaccount.google.com.
2. Go to Security and select Change password immediately.
3. Review Your devices under Security and sign out of any unfamiliar sessions.
4. Enable two-factor authentication if it is not already active.
5. If you provided payment details, contact your bank or card issuer to report potential fraud.
6. Report the incident to Scamwatch at https://www.scamwatch.gov.au.

If you shared your Google password or verification code, treat your account as compromised. Change your password and secure your account before doing anything else.

I Am Not Sure If a Call Was Legitimate

If you have any doubt, hang up and contact Google independently through your Business Profile dashboard. Do not call back any number provided by the caller. Legitimate Google support will never ask for your password or verification code over the phone.

I Keep Receiving Scam Calls

Block the number on your mobile or landline. Consider registering your business number on the Australian Do Not Call Register, though this will not stop all scam calls. Document the time, date, and number of each call in case you need to report it.

I Need Help Securing My Google Business Profile

If you need assistance reviewing your Google Business Profile security or suspect your account has been targeted, Open a Ticket with 220 Internet Services.

Still Having Issues?