Google Maps Scam: How Competitors Can Steal Your Ranking
Google Maps Scam: How Competitors Can Steal Your Ranking
Have you heard about the latest sneaky scam targeting Google Business Profiles? Competitors can now maliciously move your Google Maps pin to a new location using the “Suggest an edit” feature. This nasty trick can tank your rankings without you having a clue why your phone isn't ringing!
When your pin is moved, Google thinks your business has relocated (even if your address didn’t change), causing a sudden drop in your rankings. Worst part? Google doesn’t notify you about these changes. So, if you’ve noticed a sudden decline in calls or website clicks, this could be why.
Don’t make the mistake of trying to just move the pin back in your Google Business Profile settings. If you do, your profile could easily get suspended and your progress will be sidelined until you get through the monotonous appeals process. You’ll want to use a Google account that isn’t associated with any Google Business Profiles to correct this.
How to Tell If You’re Being Targeted:
- Go to your Google Business Profile Dashboard
- Click “Edit Profile” > “Location”
- Look at the map displayed below your business address and check if the pin placement is accurate
How to Fix It If You Were Targeted:
- Log into Google with an email unlinked to any Google Business Profiles
- Find your business on Google Maps
- Click “Suggest an edit” > “Change name or other details” > “Edit map location”
- Drag the pin to the correct spot and hit “Save”
Remember to check your Google Business Profile monthly for any unexpected changes to avoid this scam and keep your rankings healthy.
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ProfilePro tip of the week:
Check your Google Business Profile to make sure Google hasn’t added any inaccurate information. Google will add services and attributes based on suggestions that may not be what you want.
Go to Your Google Business Profile
Wondering how well your Google Business Profile ranks on Google Maps for different keywords? We built a free local ranking audit tool you can use to quickly find out!
Check out our guide on every possible ranking strategy for Google Business Profiles!
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Google Updates You Should Know About
Google updates their algos regularly, and we check and then digest them for you. Here are the latest ones local marketers should know about:
- March 2024 - Core Algo Update
- November 2023 - Core Algo Update
- October 2023 - Core Algo Update
- August 2023 - Core Algo Update
- March 2023 - Core Algo Update
You can find details on all algo updates here.
