Google sues scammers for fake business listings on Google Maps

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Google is cracking down on scammers who create fake business listings on Google Maps to trick people. 

According to The Verge, the company recently removed 10,000 fake listings. Google is also suing a group of scammers responsible for setting up these listings. 

This action comes after a locksmith in Texas reported that someone was pretending to be their business on Google Maps.

Here’s how these scams work: Fraudsters create fake business profiles on Google Maps that look like actual companies. 

When someone searches for a service, such as a locksmith, plumber, or electrician, they might come across one of these fake listings and call the number.

Sometimes, the scammer actually provides the service but charges way more than usual.

Other times, the call gets redirected to a scam center, where the victim is pressured to pay upfront. After paying, the scammer never actually shows up.

Scammers also use tricks to make their fake businesses seem legitimate. For example, they post fake positive reviews to boost their ranking. 

They can even manipulate the Q&A section of a business listing to make their scam appear more trustworthy.

Google says it’s continually fighting these scams. In 2023 alone, the company removed or blocked 12 million fake business listings. 

However, the problem is getting worse each year, and more fake listings are appearing.

To tackle this, Google is also cracking down on businesses that try to boost their ratings with fake reviews. 

In the UK, the company has even restricted businesses caught manipulating reviews after regulators pressured them to act.

Google’s legal team says scammers are becoming smarter, but the company is working hard to stop them. 

They use advanced methods to detect fraud, and when alerted, they remove not just one fake listing but also similar ones linked to the scam.

Google suggests double-checking business details before booking a service.

If a business has only glowing reviews, unusually low prices, or asks for upfront payment over the phone, it could be a scam. 

What do you think about this move from Google? Do you think Google needs to do better with scammers on its services? Tell us below in the comments, or via our Twitter or Facebook.