Scam Alert! Why is Google Calling Me?

Looking for answers on SEO (Search Engine Optimization) in Prescott? iPrescott Business Solutions is your online marketing guru.

How to rank high on a search engine such as Google seems to be a mystery. Every business owner wants to be the very first search result on the very first page. Getting there takes some effort and it does not work through the magic from answering your phone when Google calls. Not all calls claiming to be Google, or anyone associated with Google are legitimate. iPescott Business Solutions explains why this is not the way to increase SEO (Search Engine Optimization) in Prescott.

 

You might receive a phone call from Google to verify your business or confirm business details for Google Maps.  You might get a call from a Google account manager (someone whom you have spoken to before). There are specific things Google does not do:

 

•    Charge for placement in Google My Business or in Google Search. Nearly every business is searchable, some rank higher, some lower.

•    Offer to increase your search ranking or manage your business’s online Google account or profile

•    Ask you for any sensitive information such as your password or verification code – and you should never provide any of this to a ‘caller,’ whether the initial call is live or automated.

•    Does not begin any phone call with a robocall (an automated call through a computer system with a recorded voice).

 

Never for any reason turn your Google, or Google+ account over to anyone to manage. This will put your Google business listing into jeopardy and into the hands of someone you don’t know. If this has happened to you, Google Support can help you recover it, but it takes some time. Here is a link with useful information provided by Google https://www.google.com/safetycenter/everyone/start/report-robocall-scams/#suspicious-calls. Your business’s Google listing is yours – it’s sensitive information.

 

Not sure if your business is listed on Google? Try a Google search on your business to see what comes up for results. Does your business show on Google Maps? Have you wondered how other businesses get there? Do other businesses have a better presence? Here is what we suggest: go to https://www.google.com/business/ Follow the simple steps and you will be on your way.

 

iPrescott Business Solutions is your community partner when it comes to SEO in Prescott. Once your business has been placed on Google Maps, or if it already shows on Google Maps, talk to us about promoting your business through online marketing. We are your hometown specialist when it comes to Social Media Marketing, eCommerce, and Website Design. Call for a free consultation at 928-642-4048 to discover how we can improve your business’s search ranking.