Google Takes Legal Action Against Fake Business Listings on Google Maps:

Google has intensified its crackdown on fake business listings on Google Maps, removing over 10,000 fraudulent profiles and filing a lawsuit against a man involved in a scam operation. The move comes as part of Google’s broader effort to protect users from online fraud and misinformation.

Fake Listings Spark Legal Action

According to a CBS News report, the action was prompted by a complaint from a Texas-based locksmith who discovered that scammers were impersonating their business on Google Maps. Fraudsters were found to be creating fake business profiles, which they then sold for profit. Google is now pursuing legal action against one individual linked to this broader scam network.

How the Scam Works

Scammers create seemingly legitimate business profiles on Google Maps to mislead customers. These listings often contain fake contact numbers that redirect users to third-party call centers. Victims may be charged high fees or asked to make payments in advance for services they never receive.

In some cases, scammers also manipulate online visibility by:

Posting fake positive reviews
Boosting Q&A sections with artificial engagement
Using automation tools to simulate credibility

Ongoing Efforts to Combat Fraud

Google’s General Counsel Halimah DeLaine Prado stated that scammers are becoming more sophisticated. She emphasized that Google is committed to detecting fraud early and removing not just individual cases, but related listings in the network.

In 2023 alone, Google blocked or removed over 12 million fake business profiles. The number of fraudulent listings is reportedly increasing each year.

Crackdown on Fake Reviews and Global Policy Updates

Google is also addressing the issue of fake reviews. The company has begun implementing stricter policies and restrictions, especially in regions like the UK, where regulatory pressure has increased. These steps are aimed at businesses that try to manipulate their ratings through dishonest review practices.

User Trust a Top Priority

Google reiterated its commitment to user trust and platform integrity. The company emphasized that it will continue to invest in technology and enforcement efforts to ensure that the information shown on Google Maps is accurate and reliable. ready.