“You’re Verified Now” and Similar Google Listing Scams

Have you ever received a phone call, email, or message from a company claiming to “work with Google” and promising to get your business “to the top of all the search results for life”? A client of mine recently did, and they ended up losing $200 to a service that turned out to be deceptive—if not outright fraudulent. Here’s what happened and how you can protect yourself from similar scams.

What Happened

My client was contacted by a company calling itself “Your Verified Now” (or something similar) that claimed to be affiliated with Google. They promised:

• Lifetime support for the business listing
• Guaranteed top placement on Google search results
• Immediate setup and verification

The representative said all this would cost a one-time fee of $200. Trusting their pitch, my client handed over payment information, expecting real results and legitimate Google support.

The Reality

After paying, they quickly realized that:

• There was no official Google verification happening. Google does not outsource or require payment for verification.
• The business did not magically appear at the top of all Google searches. There is no legitimate way to guarantee forever-top rankings, and any SEO company that promises this is either naive or scamming.

The company stopped responding to calls and emails once they had the money.

How to Legitimately Verify Your Business on Google

1. Use Google Business Profile (GBP):
   Go to google.com/business. Setting up and verifying your business is completely free.
2. Add Your Business Information:
   Enter your address, phone number, hours of operation, and any other relevant details. This helps customers find accurate info when they search for you.
3. Follow Google’s Verification Process:
   Google typically sends a postcard to your business address, or offers phone or email verification (depending on your region and business type). This process is also free.
4. Optimize Your Listing: Add photos, respond to reviews, and keep your info up to date. Good reviews and relevant content can help improve visibility—but keep in mind, no one can guarantee top placement in search results.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

1. Upfront Fee for Google Verification:
   Google does not charge money to verify or list your business.
2. Guaranteed #1 Ranking:
   Search rankings are influenced by location, competition, relevance, and more. No one can promise you’ll always be on top.
3. Aggressive Sales Calls:
   If a company cold-calls you claiming to represent Google or saying you must pay or risk being “de-listed,” it’s almost certainly a scam.
4.  Requests for Sensitive Info: Never share credit card details or private info with unknown callers. If in doubt, hang up and do your own research.

What to Do If You’re Scammed

1. Contact Your Bank or Credit Card Company:
   Dispute the charge and report it as fraudulent if you suspect a scam.
2. File a Complaint with the Authorities:
   In the U.S., you can report these scams to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your state’s consumer protection office.
3. Spread Awareness: Share your experience (like this post) to help others recognize the scam.

How to Grow Your Online Presence Safely

• Focus on Good SEO Practices:
  Publish helpful content, list your business on reputable directories (Yelp, TripAdvisor, etc., depending on your industry), and encourage happy customers to leave honest reviews.
• Use Social Media Strategically:
  Engage with your audience on platforms where they naturally spend time—Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.
• Consider Hiring a Reputable SEO Consultant: Legitimate SEO professionals will never promise guaranteed #1 rankings. Instead, they’ll work on technical optimizations and quality content to gradually improve your visibility.

Conclusion

My clients’ unfortunate experience shows that scammers are always on the lookout for small business owners seeking quick fixes for online visibility. Always remember:

• Verifying your business on Google is free.
• No one can promise #1 rankings for life.
• When in doubt, hang up or ignore unsolicited offers and do your own research.

Stay informed, protect your hard-earned money, and focus on legitimate, proven methods to boost your business’s online presence. If you suspect a scam, report it and share your story to help others avoid the same fate.

 Disclaimer: The events in this post are based on personal experience and/or third-party accounts. Always do your own research and consult official sources when dealing with online services claiming affiliation with Google or other major tech platforms.