Google is currently examining a concerning strategy related to Local Service Ads (LSA) that has the potential to severely impact competitors.
The tactic involves linking multiple LSAs to a single Google Business Profile (GBP), resulting in the ads becoming invisible and effectively eliminating any leads generated. This loophole could be exploited by competitors, who could link LSAs to a competitor’s GBP without their knowledge, rendering their ads ineffective in reaching consumers.
The significance of this issue lies in the potential loss of leads for businesses whose GBP is unexpectedly not generating leads. Identifying this problem necessitates consultation with a Google support representative.
The initial complaint was brought to light when a business owner shared their experience on the Google Business Profile forum. They noted a sudden drop in leads and spam after their LSA had initially been performing well. Upon investigation, they discovered that their GBP had two LSAs linked to it, despite only setting up one themselves. They expressed frustration at being unable to unlink the unknown LSA account and raised concerns about the suggested solution of starting a new GBP from scratch.
Ben Fisher, Co-Founder/Lead Consultant at Steady Demand, referred to the tactic as “brutal” and urged Google Ads Liaison Ginny Marvin to investigate the loophole. He emphasized the detrimental impact this tactic could have on businesses.
Marvin responded promptly, confirming that Google was investigating the issue.
An update provided by Google confirmed that the issue was deemed an “isolated incident” following an investigation. Google Ads Liaison Officer Ginny Marvin stated that multiple factors were at play and reiterated the existing processes in place for honoring GBP ownership.
