Exploitation of Google Map Pins Results in Local Rankings Drop and Potential Suspension
A few months ago, I posted about a potential bug with Google Maps where pins were being relocated to a single location. Later updates indicated it was more likely a spam or hack exploit. Indeed, spammers are hijacking business locations on Google Maps by moving their map pins, leading to declines in local rankings and potential Google Business Profile suspensions.
Darren Shaw posted an insightful video on social media, including X, demonstrating how easily spammers can exploit this vulnerability on Google Maps. He showed that when affected businesses attempt to move their pin back to the correct location, it often results in their Google Business Profile being suspended.
In summary, on Google Maps, you can search for businesses in a specific area, edit the listing, and drag the pin to any location you choose. This issue has persisted for several months, and I am frustrated that the Google Maps team has not yet resolved it. I covered this problem last March, and Joy Hawkins has been posting about it since last year.
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