Have you received a call or voicemail that sounds like this?
“This is Justin from the Business Help Center. 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 it doesn’t disrupt services. Please call us today at your earliest convenience, 877-735-0125. Our office closes at 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time today, so please call us back before then. Thanks.”
If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Thousands of business owners across the U.S. are being targeted with these fake Google Business Profile scam calls. And here’s the truth: it’s not Google—it’s a scam.
Why These Google Business Profile Calls Are a Scam
1. Google Business Profiles Don’t Have “Keywords”
Your Google Business Profile doesn’t contain keywords. It only includes your business name, category, description, services, photos, reviews, and posts. Scammers use the term “keywords” because it sounds technical and urgent, but it doesn’t apply to Business Profiles at all.
2. Fake Urgency to Pressure You
The voicemail mentions “urgent issues” and says it must be fixed before the end of the day or your services could be disrupted. This is classic scare-tactic language meant to pressure you into calling back.
3. Repetition of the Phone Number
Legitimate Google support won’t repeat a phone number multiple times in a voicemail. Scammers do this to make sure you write it down and return their call.
4. False Authority
The caller claims to be from the “Business Help Center.” That department doesn’t exist. It’s simply a fake name designed to sound official and trustworthy.
What Happens If You Call Back
If you return the call, the scammers will usually:
- Try to sell overpriced “Google optimization” services.
- Claim they are “Google partners” (they’re not).
- Sometimes ask for access to your Google account—a huge red flag.
How to Protect Yourself From Google Business Profile Scams
- Ignore the calls – There’s no urgent issue with your listing.
- Educate your team – Make sure employees know not to engage with these callers.
- Never give out login details – Google will never call asking for your account info.
- Report the scam – In the U.S., you can file a complaint at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
The Bottom Line
There is no such thing as “urgent keyword issues” with your Google Business Profile. These calls are scams aimed at scaring you into paying for unnecessary services—or worse, giving away access to your Google account.
Your listing is safe, and you don’t need to call back. If you ever have concerns about your profile, reach out to a trusted digital marketing partner like Brain Buzz Marketing, not a random 877 number.
FAQs About Google Business Profile Scam Calls
Does Google call you about your Business Profile?
No. Google does not cold-call business owners to report issues with their profile. The only time Google may contact you is in response to a support request you initiated.
Are there keywords in a Google Business Profile?
No. Google Business Profiles don’t have a keyword field. Scammers use the word “keywords” to sound technical and confuse business owners.
How can I tell if a Google call is real?
A real Google call will never pressure you, repeat phone numbers, or ask for account access. Google support only responds if you’ve contacted them first.
What should I do if I already called the number back?
If you gave them no information, you’re safe—just hang up and block the number. If you shared account access or payment info, change your passwords immediately and contact your bank or credit card provider.
How can I protect my business from Google Business Profile scams?
Train your staff to recognize scam tactics, never give out login details, and work only with trusted marketing partners who can manage your profile safely.
