Top 7 Reasons Google My Business Accounts Get Suspended
Every modern business has its online presence, and Google My Business is one of the most effective means of connecting a local business with a future customer. The most common reason that business owners face is Google My Business suspension. Having a suspended GMB account means you will not be able to maintain your online visibility which affects customer engagement through several possible ways.
Below are 7 major reasons why Google My Business accounts get suspended and how to avoid suspension.
1. Violation of Google’s Guidelines
One of the primary GMB suspension causes is not following their rules. Google has really rigid rules for businesses on how they should convey their information. Some causes that will lead to account suspension are things like the use of inappropriate business categories, adding fake reviews, keyword stuffing in the business name as well as providing misleading information.
Solution: Be sure to familiarize yourself with Google's guidelines and be accurate and compliant with your business profile. Make your information honest and simple.
2. Inconsistent Business Information
By offering inconsistent business information on your site and social platforms, as well as on your GMB account, red flags may be raised. This is because Google appraises all the information, including the business name, address, phone number, and even a website.
Solution: Make sure your business details are uniform across all listings and directories online and change your GMB profile frequently regarding updates.
3. Multiple Listings for the Same Business
When you have more than one GMB listing for the same location, it may confuse customers and eventually lead to the suspension of GMB. The preference for Google is only one listing in a single location. This eliminates the confusion and becomes clearer in the search results.
Solution: Never create duplicate GMB profiles. If there are multiple branches or locations, make sure that there is only one profile per branch with the details accurate to that location.
4. Suspicious or Spammy Activity
According to Google's research, any suspicious or spammy activity on a GMB account would first include fake reviews, bulk uploads of irrelevant information, and the use of fictitious virtual offices without the behind-the-scenes presence of an actual business. Such things would certainly lead to suspension.
Solution: Be authentic. Do not buy fake reviews. Do not take on virtual addresses. Instead, focus on developing honest relationships with customers.
5. Ownership or Verification Issues
Suspension of your GMB account can result from disputes over ownership or verification issues. For example, unauthorized claims over your business listing will lead to suspension.
Solution: Secure the verification of your GMB ownership. Allow only the authorized personnel to manage your GMB profile.
6. Restraining Content and Activities
Strictly, Google does not entertain any form of prohibited content or events under a GMB account. This includes but is not limited to offensive material, illegal services, and restricted industries such as adult services and tobacco products.
Solution: Simply refrain from posting prohibited content or promoting services that upset Google's guidelines for business listings. Have an immaculate and relevant business listing.
7. Using P.O. Box or Inaccurate Address
Using a P.O. box or the wrong address while mentioning your business could be one of the GMB suspension causes. All businesses are required to have an actual current physical address where customers can visit or access them.
Solution: Always keep a genuine business address. If it is a service-based business and you do not have a storefront, express the following message; services are provided at customers' locations.
How to Prevent Google My Business Suspension?
Primarily, Google wishes that you stick to its guidelines and give truthful information about the business if you want to sidestep your Google My Business suspension. Ensure that you have your GMB profile fully according to guidelines, keep updating your information frequently, and act fast regarding ownership disputes. Authenticity and accuracy are also keys to having a healthy GMB account.
Final Thoughts
An account suspension on Google My Business could impact your local SEO and business visibility for good. If you understand the common reasons why GMB gets suspended and adhere to the best practices to prevent them, the chances are slim that your business profile will be kept adrift.
If you suffer from GMB suspension or want to develop a local business existence, SAAR is the one to help you. SAAR specializes in the management of online profiles, compliance with the provisions of Google, and development of strategies for local search engine optimization. Visit us and find out how we can support your business in the complexities of Google My Business management.
