Beware of scammers asking for money to verify your Google Business Profile

As a small business owner, it’s important to be aware of the various scams that exist online. One such scam that is currently making the rounds is the “GVerified” scam, where scammers are posing as a verified service for Google Business Profiles. They offer to verify your profile for a fee, but the truth is that Google offers verification for free through their Google My Business program which usually we have helped our customers with.

It’s important to understand how these scammers operate so you can protect yourself and your business. They typically reach out to businesses through phone and in some instances, email or social media, offering their “verification” services. They may make a convincing case, even providing a fake verification badge or certificate to make their offer seem legitimate. But don’t be fooled! Google does not charge for verification and does not use third parties for the verification process.

If you’re ever unsure about the legitimacy of a service being offered, it’s always best to contact us here at Websites Made With Love by phone or by email. If you require assistance with the verification or optimization of your Google Business Profile, we can help with that, too. You can also check the Google My Business Help Center for more information on how to avoid scams and protect your business.

It’s also a good idea to be vigilant when giving out sensitive information online. Scammers may ask for personal information such as your business address, phone number, or financial information. in some cases, they may try to perform verification with you alongside them – do not do this and hand over control to “GVerified”. Always be wary of unsolicited requests for this type of information and never give out your information unless you’re certain of the legitimacy of the request.

In summary, always be cautious when receiving unsolicited offers for services, especially if they involve payment. Remember, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Google does not charge for verification and does not use third parties for the verification process. Verify the legitimacy of any service being offered and never give out sensitive information. By being vigilant and protecting your business, you can avoid falling victim to these scams and keep your business running smoothly.