Inconsistent Business Information (NAP Inconsistency)

One of the most common reasons Google flags profiles is inconsistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone Number) information across the web. If your business details do not match your website, Google Business Profile, and other directories, Google might think your profile is inaccurate or fake.

Example of NAP Inconsistency:

  • Your website lists your phone number as (555) 123-4567, but your GBP lists (555) 987-6543.
  • Your business name is listed as “Jessica’s Cleaning Services” on your website but as “Jessica’s Cleaning & Organizing” on Google.
  • If your Business name is Lead Nerds, LLC – DO NOT include LLC, or Inc etc only put the name of the business and omit LLC or Inc

How to Avoid NAP Inconsistency:

  • Make sure your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) are consistent across all platforms (website, social media, directories).
  • Avoid adding extra keywords to your business name (e.g., “Jessica’s Cleaning | Best Cleaning Services”).

Using a P.O. Box or Virtual Office Address

Google requires businesses to use a real, physical address for verification. If you use a P.O. box, virtual office, or coworking space without clear signage Google might flag your profile.

Why Google Flags Your Listing for Using a P.O. Box or Virtual Office Address:

Google wants to ensure customers can physically locate your business, even if you run a service-area business from home.

How to Avoid Google Flagging Your Listing for Using a P.O. Box or Virtual Office Address:

  • If you work from home, select the option to “Hide my address” and specify your service area instead.
  • For verification, record a video showing your address, signage, and the ability to unlock the building or mailbox.

 

Violating Google’s Business Name Policy

Google requires that your business name on GBP matches your real-world business name. If you try to add extra keywords, locations, or services to your profile name, you risk getting flagged.

Common Mistakes that Violate Google’s Business Name Policy:

  • Listing your business as “Jessica’s Plumbing | Best Emergency Plumber in Florida” instead of “Jessica’s Plumbing.”
  • DO NOT Add LLC, Inc. Even if its on your Business documents

How to Avoid Violating Google’s Business Name Policy:

  • Use your legal, real-world business name.
  • Do not add extra keywords or promotional text.

 

Avoid Creating Duplicate Listings

Creating multiple listings for the same business location can result in both profiles being flagged or suspended.

Why does Google Flag Duplicate Listings:

Google wants to avoid confusion for users. If there are two profiles for one business, it can look like spam.

How to Avoid It:

  • Stick to one profile per location.
  • If you have multiple locations, make sure each profile has a unique address and phone number.

 

Suspicious or Spammy Reviews

Google closely monitors reviews to detect fake or incentivized reviews. If your profile gets a surge of suspicious reviews (especially from the same IP address or non-local users), it can be flagged.

Common Spammy Review Tactics:

  • Asking friends and family to leave fake reviews.
  • Offering discounts or incentives in exchange for reviews.
  • Paying for fake reviews.
  • Reviews left on the same IP address within a short period of time can also be taken down from the listing.

How to Avoid It:

  • Only ask real customers to leave reviews.
  • Respond to all reviews — positive or negative.
  • Do not post multiple reviews from the same IP address.

 

Keyword Stuffing in Business Categories or Descriptions

Some business owners try to stuff keywords into their business descriptions or categories to rank higher in search results. Google can detect this and may flag your profile for violating guidelines.

Example of Keyword Stuffing on a Google Business Profile:

  • Listing your business categories as: “Plumber, Emergency Plumber, 24/7 Plumber, Leak Repair” instead of just “Plumber.”

How to Avoid It:

  • Choose relevant business categories (Google allows up to 10).
  • Write a natural, informative description that highlights your services.

Using a Non-Local or Inaccurate Phone Number

Google prefers businesses to have a local phone number that matches their service area. Using toll-free numbers (800, 888) or incorrect phone numbers can cause your profile to be flagged.

How to Avoid It:

  • Use a local area code that matches your service area.
  • Keep your phone number consistent across all platforms.

 

Not Completing the Verification Process Properly

Failing to complete Google’s verification process can lead to your profile being flagged or suspended.

How to Complete Video Verification:

  1. Show your business signage or address mailbox.
  2. Show your workspace, tools, or equipment.
  3. Unlock the door or mailbox to prove you have access.

 

Uploading Unapproved Images or Videos

Google has strict guidelines for images and videos. Posting stock photos, promotional graphics, or inappropriate content can result in flagged content.

How to Avoid It:

  • Upload high-quality, real images of your business.
  • Avoid using stock images or excessive text.
  • Keep videos professional and relevant.

 

What to Do If Your Profile Gets Flagged or Suspended

If your profile gets flagged, here is how to fix it:

  1. Log in to your Google Business Dashboard to see notifications.
  2. Fix any issues Google highlights (e.g., inconsistent info or verification problems).
  3. Appeal the suspension by providing evidence like utility bills, photos of your location, and verification videos. When you reply to the email from Google make sure the email is concise. 

 

Instant Verification Through Google Search Console

In some cases, Google may verify your Google Business Profile instantly, without requiring a postcard or video verification.

This often happens when you have already verified your website through Google Search Console — a free tool that helps you manage your website’s presence on Google Search.

Why Search Console Helps with Google Business Profile Verification:

  • Connecting your website to Google Search Console shows Google that your business is legitimate and already recognized online.
  • Matching the domain of your website and your GBP listing improves your trustworthiness in Google’s system.

How to Set Up Google Search Console:

  1. Go to https://search.google.com/search-console.
  2. Click “Add Property” and enter your website domain.
  3. Follow the instructions to verify ownership of your website.

 

Important Reminder:

For this method to work, your website information must match the details you submit to Google Business Profile.

  • Your business name, address, phone number, and hours of operation on your website should be identical to what you provide on your GBP listing.
  • Inconsistent information across your website and GBP can result in your profile being flagged or delayed for manual verification.