Protect Your Business Reputation

Google My Business (GMB) suspensions happen when Google finds something concerning or against its policies in your business profile. While it can be frustrating, suspensions are often a way for Google to protect the integrity of its platform and ensure that only legitimate businesses show up in search results.

Common Reasons for Suspension

1. Inaccurate Information If your business name, address, or phone number (NAP) doesn’t match the information on your website or other listings, Google might flag it as inconsistent. Consistency is key to showing your business is credible.

   Example: If your business is listed as “Joe’s Auto Repair” on your website but “Joe’s Car Fixing” on GMB, this could trigger a suspension.

2. Keyword Stuffing in Business Name Adding extra words to your business name to rank higher can lead to suspension. For example, instead of "Joe's Auto Repair," don't use "Best Affordable Joe’s Auto Repair in New York."

3. Multiple Listings for the Same Business Having multiple GMB listings for the same business, especially in the same location, violates Google's guidelines. Each business location should have only one listing to avoid confusion.

4. Unverified Location Google wants to make sure businesses are real and their locations exist. If you don’t verify your business by postcard, phone, or email, Google may suspend the listing.

   Example: If you move locations but forget to update or verify your new address, your listing could be suspended.

5. Prohibited Content Any offensive, misleading, or inappropriate content, such as fake reviews or irrelevant photos, can result in a suspension. GMB posts and photos should always reflect your actual business and services.

Types of Suspensions

1. Soft Suspension Your listing is still visible to customers, but you lose access to the dashboard and can’t make updates. This is a warning to fix issues quickly.

2. Hard Suspension Your listing is removed from search results entirely. Customers won’t be able to find your business until the problem is resolved.

How to Fix a Suspension

• Review Google's Guidelines: Make sure all the information in your GMB listing follows Google's policies.

• Correct Inaccuracies: Check your business name, address, and phone number for consistency.

• Submit a Reinstatement Request: If you believe the suspension was a mistake, you can request reinstatement through Google's support, but be sure to fix any issues first.