Tired of perennial calls from spam numbers claiming it is from Google and that they want to discuss something about your business listing? Well, you are not alone. Many business owners face this problem, which is immensely irritating. This article will give you practical solutions that will help you avoid such annoying and potentially harmful spam calls.
How It Works
First let me point out, Google doesn’t call people regarding issues with your listing. Each of these calls are scam artists trying to take advantage of business owners. Most of the calls claim your listing is in danger or they can improve your search rankings if you pay them a fee.
How to Block Google Business Spam Calls
1. Don’t Engage the Callers
Problem: It is a fact that when answering calls from spammers, more calls are called in.
Solution:
- Identify the spam call and hang up right there and then
- Never press any buttons, even if an option to “opt-out” is provided
- Never give personal or business information over the phone
2. Block the Numbers
Problem: Many spam callers use more than one phone number.Solution:
- Block a number using your phone’s built-in blocking feature
- Consider downloading a call-blocking app, which will automatically detect and block spam calls
- Your phone service provider can tell you if they offer additional call-blocking options
3. Register with the National Do Not Call Registry
Problem: The probable cause may be that your business’s number is not on a no-call list hence the telemarketers mark those numbers as their target.
Solution:
- Register your business phone number at donotcall.gov or by calling 1-888-382-1222
- Please note that putting your number on that list reduces the legitimate telemarketing calls, but this may not be able to stop scam calls
4. File a Complaint
Problem: The problem is that, with such, these scammers will still pull through with scams because nobody actually reports them.
Solution:
- Report spam calls at ftc.gov/complaint
- File an FCC complaint at fcc.gov/complaints
- Report it to Google on their Google My Business support page
5. Educate your staff
Problem: Employees will innocently respond to spammers.
Solution:
- Train your staff how to recognize the call is Google business spam
- Create a response when this type of call is received example hang up and notify manager
- Keep a whitelist of known numbers from Google for my business calls
6. Secure your Google My Business Listing
Problem: An unclaimed or unverified listing is very likely to attract scammers.
Solution:
- If you haven’t, go ahead and first claim then verify your Google My Business listing
- Keep the listing up to date to ensure all information in it is correct
- Use strong passwords, and enable two-factor authentication on your Google account
7. Employ the Services of a Call Screener
Problem: You cannot be sure if an incoming call will be a spammer or a person calling your service.
Solution:
- Be Proactive-Invest in the services of a virtual receptionist or call screening services
- IVR can filter calls in front before it reaches you
Resort to the following only:
If you have tried all of the above solutions and still get those harassing spam calls, then:
- Change your business phone number if all else fails
- Find out from a cybersecurity expert what vulnerability your communication systems are presenting to these unwanted attacks
- Keep yourself updated with the latest tactics used by scammers and change your prevention strategies for better results
Keep in mind that no real representative from Google will ever cold-call you about your business listing. Caution and the usage of these techniques will severely reduce how frequent spam calls about Google Business you get and keep you going with your business uninterrupted.
Contact Info:
- Email: info@wooflo.pro
- Phone: +33751209253
- Address: 71-75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London WC2H 9JQ, UK
- Website: https://wooflo.pro