Watch Out for This Google Business Profile Scam Targeting Contractors

It starts with a phone call: "We're having an urgent issue with the keywords on your Google Business Listing, and we'd like to get this fixed before the end of the day…" Sounds legit, right? But here's the truth: Google will never call you like that. And this common scam is tricking contractors out of time and money.

How This Scam Works

• The scammer claims there's a "keyword" issue with your Google Business Profile.
• They use urgent language to make it sound like your listing might be removed or deactivated.
• They ask you to call them before their office "closes at 5:00pm EST".
• The number might change, but the script is almost always the same.

If someone says they're from Google and they're calling about "keywords," hang up. It's a scam.

Listen Before You Fall For It

We've included a short audio clip and transcript from an actual voicemail we received - to walk through an example of how these scam calls sound.

Transcript:

This is [redacted] from the verification department.

Uhm, we're having an urgent issue with the keywords on your Google business listing

And would like to get this fixed before the end of the day so that it doesn't disrupt services.

Uhm, so please give us a call today at your earliest convenience - [number redacted] .

Now our office closes at 5pm Eastern Standard Time today.

So, uh, just call us before then.

But again, we're having an urgent issue with the keywords on your Google business listing

And would like to get this fixed before the end of the day so that it doesn't disrupt services.

So, call us as soon as you can.

Thanks. Talk to you soon.

Use this as a reference to train your staff and keep your team alert.

What Google Actually Does (and Doesn't Do)

Google doesn't call businesses to discuss keyword rankings, Business Profile performance, or ad services-unless you've scheduled a support call yourself. If someone is cold calling you and using Google's name to add credibility, it's a red flag.

• Google won't call you about suspensions or listing edits without your request.
• They don't call to sell services for GBP optimization.
• They definitely don't offer to "fix keywords."

Learn more about contractor marketing the right way-and protect yourself by staying informed.

What GBP Scammers Are After

Not every call like this is exactly the same, but the motivation usually falls into one of two camps:

• Some scammers are looking to trick you into handing over ownership or access to your Google Business Profile.
• Others are less technical and more opportunistic, charging you fees for work you don't need-or for services you already pay a marketing company to do.
• They prey on urgency, hoping you'll take action quickly without verifying the caller.
• Even well-meaning but deceptive marketing reps sometimes use scare tactics to push unnecessary services.

Whether the goal is access or a quick buck, the strategy is always the same: panic you into saying yes.

What You Should Do Instead

• If you get a suspicious call, don't call the number back.
• Block the number and mark it as spam.
• Warn your office staff or anyone who might answer the phone.
• Keep your Google Business Profile access secure and up to date.

And if you ever have questions about your online listings, current clients can reach out to your Footbridge Media team via their Dashboard-we'll give you real answers, no scare tactics.

If you're not a Footbridge Media client yet, we can always start off the conversation with a free, no-risk contractor marketing consultation.

Need a hand with your online marketing? Claim your free consultation!

What This Means for Your Business

Falling for this kind of scam doesn't just cost money-it breaks trust and wastes your time. As a contractor or home service provider, your online presence matters. Don't let scammers use fear to make you take action you'll regret.

Footbridge Media helps contractors navigate online listings, Google ad management, and all the stuff scammers pretend to be experts in. You've got real support in your corner.

About Chris Lonergan

Chris Lonergan has over 13 years of contractor marketing experience with Footbridge Media. With a background in web design, print design, content creation, and online marketing, Chris is focused on providing quality marketing and business solutions in the construction and service industries - helping small business owners to more efficiently manage their companies and grow their operations.

Chris Lonergan has previously contributed to and/or been featured in PM Magazine (Plumbing & Mechanical | Contractors x Engineers), theNEWS (ACHR - Air Conditioning | Heating | Refrigeration), Turf Magazine (For Landscaping and Green Industry Professionals) Service Roundtable's blog, inPAINT Magazine, the SMB Marketing Agency Show, and the Green Industry Podcast. Chris is also a past SGI/CertainPath breakout session presenter.

About Chris Lonergan