What Is the Fake Business Listing Scam?

Some scammers are creating fake businesses on online maps and search engines. These counterfeit listings can look authentic and professional, but they are designed to trick people into calling or clicking. The goal? To steal your money or your personal information.

How the Scam Works

Scammers post fake business names, phone numbers, and addresses on sites like Google Maps. They pretend to be genuine service providers, like locksmiths, plumbers, or towing companies. When someone is in a hurry and needs help, they may call one of these fake listings. Once they have you on the phone, the scammer might ask for payment upfront or get you to share personal details. Sometimes, they send you to an official website, but it’s a trap to collect your private information.

Example of the Scam

After locking herself out of her apartment, Maya searched online for a nearby locksmith and clicked the first result. The person on the phone asked her to pay before the locksmith arrived. But no one ever came. Maya later found out the business wasn’t real and the listing had fake reviews.

Tips to Protect Yourself From the Fake Business Listing Scam

• Use trusted providers. Consider asking friends or family for recommendations before hiring a service.
• Check reviews and websites. Research businesses you haven’t used before to make sure they are legitimate.
• Watch for warning signs. Be cautious of listings with little information, inconsistent details, or copied content.
• Avoid paying upfront. Unless you’re confident the business is real, delay payment until the service is delivered.
• Pay with a credit card when possible. Credit cards offer added fraud protection compared to other payment methods.

If You’ve Been Scammed

If you’ve been scammed by a fake business listing, follow these essential tips:

• Contact us and any other financial institutions you work with. If your account information has been compromised, or if you have mistakenly given money to a scam, let us know.
• Report the scam to the FTC. File a report with the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.FTC.gov. Also, inform your local law enforcement.
• Report the scam to the state attorney general. You can find information at NAAG.org.
• File a report. Report the scam to the platform where the fake listing appeared (e.g., Google).