Google My Business (GMB) Listing Hijacking is on the rise

The issue of hijacking Google My Business Listing (GMB) is on the rise nowadays. It is a problem where somebody can gain control of the local profiles other than the business owners. The trend of GMB listing phishing is growing, and Google is aware of this problem.

GMB phishing

Scammers are actively phishing by using a “claim this business” link in the local knowledge panel/ profile. Clicking on the link creates an email request for control over the listing, and it is sent to the registered owner of the profile. This is just one of the complaints filed in the GMB forum.

The worrying thing is that the frequency of this tactic appears to be growing with every passing day. Using this tactic, scammers are selling leads to other businesses.

When asked about this phenomenon, a Google spokesperson informed Search Engine Land that they are aware of this problem and monitoring closely to keep information of maps safe and accurate. The spokesperson has further advised merchants to decline the request to transfer ownership from an unknown individual. However, the right to manage Business Profile is granted only after the verified merchant accepts the request or prove their affiliation with the business. The merger of duplicates leads to this hijacking of the GMB profile.

Why is the hijacking of GMB listing a serious problem?

The listing fraud, fake reviews, and other misinformation in Google are bad for consumers. It is mostly bad for small businesses and has an impact on their sales. Most of the SMBs are already facing lower sales during this COVID pandemic, and it is a matter of their survival.

By going through the GMB forum, it is evident that business owners are not educated about the risk of GMB hijacking. So, Google must do something to safeguard the interest of SMB with appropriate steps, such as training of its support staff to help business owners to deal with such problems.

For any GMB work or GMB reinstatement consultation contact us.