What counts as fake
- A listing for a business that doesn't exist at that address.
- Several listings for the same business in different suburbs it has no premises in.
- Lead-generation listings that just pass calls on to whoever pays.
- A real business with keywords stuffed into its name.
Step one: suggest an edit
- Find the listing on Google Maps.
- Choose Suggest an edit.
- Pick the option that fits: closed, doesn't exist, or a wrong name.
- Submit. Google sometimes asks other users to confirm.
This works for simple cases, like a stuffed name or a listing at a vacant block. It often doesn't stick for organised spam.
Step two: the redressal complaint form
For repeated or larger cases, Google has a business redressal complaint form. This is where you give detail: the listings, why they're fake, and your evidence. It takes longer to fill in and gets more attention.
Building the case
- Screenshot each listing with its address and phone number.
- Check Street View at each address.
- Search the phone number. Spam networks often reuse one number.
- Note which listings share the same photos or description.
- Keep it factual. Explain what's wrong, not who you think is behind it.
Don't get dragged in
Never create fake listings back, and never leave fake reviews on theirs. Report, keep your own profile clean, and put your energy into the reviews and services that win the real customers.
Rather not do this yourself? Our Google Business Profile management handles the profile, the posts and the reviews every week, for one monthly fee.