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Issue #200: A New Google Maps Ranking Scam, Uncovered!

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Hey there,
We recently uncovered a new scam spreading through local service markets. The pitch is simple.
A vendor promises to increase Google Maps rankings within seven days and they claim they can do it without accessing the Google Business Profile. Clients hear this and think it is some kind of secret SEO method. You and I know it is a red flag.
Here is what we found when we dug into these offers.
What These Scammers Actually Do
Since they have no GBP access, they rely on off profile manipulation that looks like real user behavior. The entire tactic is built on faking signals Google normally trusts.
They create:
  • Fake driving direction requests
  • Fake brand searches
  • Fake click activity to inflate CTR
  • Public edits that keyword stuff the business name
  • Spam reports that remove competing listings
These tricks can move rankings fast, but only for a short time. Google eventually catches the pattern and reverses everything.
Why This Scam Is a Serious Threat
  • High chance of GBP suspension
  • Loss of reviews and listing history
  • Long and painful reinstatement process
  • Your agency gets blamed if the client acted without telling you
The scammers disappear. You are left managing the fallout.
How To Talk Clients Out of This Scam
  • Use these straightforward lines the moment a client asks about a quick ranking offer.
  • “Any company that says they can boost Maps rankings in a week without your profile login is running a scam. They are faking engagement signals that Google flags.”
  • “These moves create short jumps and long-term damage. The risk of suspension is real.”
  • “Once suspended, it can take weeks to recover. Even valid reviews and history can be wiped out.”
What Real Improvement Looks Like
If you need to reset expectations quickly, point clients back to the fundamentals.
  • Clean citations
  • Accurate categories and service data
  • Steady review growth
  • Local content that aligns with search intent
  • Real user engagement over time
This is what produces stable, long-lasting rankings.
If you want us to manage these clients white-label—and keep you on top of the ongoing scam alerts while we build your client’s rankings legitly—book a meeting and InvisiblePPC can step in quietly under your brand.
Talk to you next week,
Avi
CEO & Chief Wizard