Voice Search Listing Scam - Be Alert! Be Smart!
Everything you need to know about Voice Search and why you should never pay to be added to a voice search registry or listing.
As I’m writing this blog, my phone rings with yet another call from a robot informing me that my business is not “visible” or “verified” on “voice search,” but I can press any key to resolve this issue. I’ve received these calls for about two months, right after I added my phone number to my website… at least that is my best guess.
Folks, these people are relentless, and I don’t want you to fall for their despicable tactics of conning you into this expensive scam. If you are receiving these calls, your business is already showing up in voice search results.
The truth is, voice search results are real, and you should have brand content optimized for voice search. The issue is these scammers use this one truth to deceive people out of their hard-earned money. I want you to be alert and too smart to fall for it.
What Is True Voice Search
First, I want you to understand voice search. Real voice search is the process of using spoken commands to search for information on the internet. It’s literally just speaking into your device for information from the internet. We’ve all used it to ask Siri, Alexa or Google to help us find a great breakfast spot near us, or to find out what time the oil change garage closes. And the answers are pulled from information already on the internet, from locations such as a business's website, social media, or Google Business Profile. Any business doing its basic SEO due diligence would have reasonable content for these basic questions.
There is absolutely no need to pay for your business to be listed on a “Voice Search Registry” or any derivative of this concept. I repeat, NO NEED! Do not give these people money. Honestly, don’t even give them one second of your time.
Be Alert! Be Smart!
If you do “press any key” and are connected with a real person, don’t be surprised if they know key things about your business. They will call it by name, list your products or services and act as if you are damaging yourself by not being a part of this deal they have for you.
If you get a call like this, here are the key red flags to watch for:
Pressure tactics. Scammers will try to create a sense of urgency, claiming you need to act immediately or your competitors will take your spot.
They actually told me that RubyKate Enterprises had shown up in five recent searches, but I had likely lost money because the search results could not connect my business with the people searching for me.
Demands for immediate payment. They may pressure you to pay a one-time fee or a recurring monthly fee for a service that is completely unnecessary.
Threats of "unlisting" your business. They might claim your business will disappear from search results if you don't pay.
Claims of representing a major company. They often pretend to be from Google, Apple, or Amazon.
How to Protect Your Business:
Stay in Control. Don't give your login information to unknown third parties.
Update Your Google Business Profile. Log in and make sure all your information is current and accurate. This is the most important step for local SEO and is completely free.
If you have ever met me at an event, you know how much I emphasize the importance of having an up-to-date, active Google Business Profile.
Do Your Research. If you're unsure about a service, tell the caller you'll research their company and call them back. Legitimate companies will be fine with this.
Hang Up. Google never makes unsolicited sales calls or asks for payment information over the phone. If a call feels suspicious, it probably is.
DIY Your SEO, Or Work With US
Many small businesses don’t have the working capital to hire a marketing or SEO consultant. We understand many of you are going it alone, DIY marketing. We get it, If you are doing marketing and SEO yourself please educate yourself on scams like this one and make wise choices with your budget.
At RubyKate Enterprises, our mission is to empower businesses with the right tools and knowledge to succeed in the digital realm. I specialize in helping small businesses, and I believe that a successful digital strategy is built on transparency and trust, not fear. We offer a full suite of services, including SEO, content marketing, and local SEO to help you build a strong online presence. All of which will get you found on voice search results.
If you're ever worried about your online visibility or have questions about a marketing service, please don't hesitate to reach out. I'm here to help you navigate the ever-evolving world of digital marketing with clarity and confidence.
