If you own a small business, there's a good chance you've received a phone call from someone claiming to be "with Google."
The conversation often starts with something like:
"We're calling about an issue with your Google Business Profile."
Or perhaps:
"We can help you get your business on the first page of Google."
These calls can sound convincing, especially when the caller seems knowledgeable about your business. Some are polite. Others are aggressive and pressure you to act immediately.
In most cases, these calls are not from Google.
Instead, they are often phishing attempts or marketing calls from companies using Google's name to gain your trust. Their goal may be to sell questionable services, gain access to your accounts, or even steal sensitive information.
Knowing how to recognize these scams can help protect your business and your online presence.
Does Google Actually Call Businesses?
Generally speaking, Google does not call businesses to tell them there is a problem with their Google Business Profile or to offer search ranking services.
If Google needs to notify you about your account or a service you manage, they typically do so through official emails, notifications within your Google account, or your Google Business Profile dashboard.
That is why you should be cautious whenever someone unexpectedly calls claiming to represent Google.
Common Google Scam Calls
Scammers often use similar scripts.
Some of the most common claims include:
- "Your Google Business Profile has a problem."
- "Your business is about to be removed from Google."
- "We can guarantee your business appears on the first page of Google."
- "Your listing needs immediate verification."
- "Your Google account has been suspended."
These statements are designed to create urgency.
When people feel pressured, they are more likely to share information or agree to services without taking time to verify the situation.
Be Careful With Emails Too
Phone calls are not the only concern.
Scammers also send emails that appear to come from Google.
Some emails look remarkably convincing. They may use Google logos, familiar colors, and professional formatting. Others even direct you to fake login pages that closely resemble Google's website.
These are known as phishing attacks.
Their goal is to trick you into entering your username, password, or other sensitive information.
Before clicking any link:
- Check the sender's email address carefully.
- Hover over links to see where they actually lead.
- Avoid logging in through links contained in unexpected emails.
If you believe an email may be legitimate, open your browser and go directly to your Google account instead of clicking the link provided.
Google also provides guidance on recognizing phishing attempts in its Gmail Help Center.
Warning Signs of a Scam
Whether you receive a phone call or an email, watch for these warning signs:
- The caller pressures you to act immediately.
- They become aggressive when you ask questions.
- They request passwords or verification codes.
- They promise guaranteed rankings on Google.
- They ask for remote access to your computer.
- The email contains suspicious links or unusual web addresses.
Legitimate companies explain their services clearly and allow you time to make informed decisions.
Scammers rely on urgency and fear.
How to Protect Yourself
There are several simple steps you can take to reduce your risk.
If Someone Calls Claiming to Be Google
Unless you were expecting the call and can independently verify who they are, it is safest to end the conversation.
Do not provide:
- Passwords
- Verification codes
- Payment information
- Access to your Google Business Profile
- Remote access to your computer
If they continue calling, you can simply ignore future calls.
Verify Emails Carefully
If you receive an email claiming to be from Google:
- Review the sender's email address.
- Be cautious of unexpected requests.
- Visit your Google account directly instead of clicking email links.
- Review Google's published security guidance if something feels suspicious.
Protect Your Google Account
Your Google account often provides access to important business assets, including:
- Gmail
- Google Business Profile
- Google Analytics
- Google Search Console
- Google Ads
- Google Drive
Protect these accounts by:
- Using a long, unique password of at least 12 characters.
- Including uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
- Never reusing passwords across multiple websites.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication
One of the best ways to protect your account is by enabling two-factor authentication (2FA).
Google offers several authentication methods, but using an authenticator app, such as Google Authenticator, generally provides stronger protection than relying solely on text message verification.
Even if someone obtains your password, two-factor authentication adds another layer of security before access is granted.
Be Careful Who You Give Access To
If you work with a marketing agency, website developer, or SEO company, they may need access to your Google Business Profile or other Google services.
Before granting access:
- Make sure you know who the company is.
- Understand why access is needed.
- Grant only the permissions required.
- Remove access when it is no longer necessary.
Good security practices include reviewing account permissions periodically to ensure only authorized users have access.
When in Doubt, Verify First
Scammers continue to become more sophisticated each year.
If something doesn't feel right, take a moment to verify it before responding.
A few minutes of caution can prevent significant problems later.
Conclusion
Google plays an important role in helping customers find businesses online, which also makes it an attractive target for scammers.
Understanding how Google normally communicates, recognizing common scam tactics, and following basic security practices can help protect your business and your online accounts.
When someone claims to be calling from Google, remember that urgency is often a warning sign, not proof that something is wrong.
Taking the time to verify before taking action is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your business.
We Are Here to Help
If you receive a suspicious phone call or email claiming to be from Google and you're not sure whether it's legitimate, don't guess.
We would be happy to help you review the situation before you respond. We can also help review the security of your Google Business Profile and website to ensure your accounts are properly protected.