Google Maps Phone Number Scam: AI Photos Mislead Customers

What Happened

In early September 2026, a new phishing tactic surfaced on Google Maps. Scammers leveraged the platform’s contributor feature to upload AI‑generated photos that include fabricated phone numbers. When users click the photo, the call is routed to the scammer’s line instead of the legitimate business number listed on the Google Business Profile (GBP).

The trick is subtle: the photo looks like a normal business image—perhaps a storefront, a product, or a service in action. The only difference is a phone number embedded in the image. Because the number is not verified by Google, callers are unaware they are contacting a fraudster.

Local business owners across the country reported the issue to Google, but responses were delayed and often ineffective, leaving many listings vulnerable.

Key Details

• How the scam works: A malicious contributor uploads an AI‑generated image to a GBP. The image contains a fake phone number. When a user clicks the photo, the call is routed to the scammer.
• Scope: The technique has been observed on dozens, potentially hundreds, of listings across various industries—especially service‑based businesses such as roofing, plumbing, and home repair.
• Why it’s hard to detect: Google’s review process focuses on textual content and business details, not embedded phone numbers in images. As a result, the fraud often slips through.
• User impact: Customers think they are calling the business they searched for, but they end up on a scam line. This can lead to lost revenue, damaged reputation, and even legal liability if customers are defrauded.
• Reporting status: Owners who flag the issue report that Google’s response is slow or dismissive, leaving businesses exposed.

What It Means For Your Business

1. Protect your reputation – If customers are misled into calling a scam line, they may blame your business for the bad experience. This can damage trust and result in negative reviews.

2. Secure your listings – Regularly audit your GBP for unauthorized images. Use the “Photos” tab to spot any suspicious uploads and remove them immediately.

3. Leverage AI‑generated alerts – VisibilityAI can monitor your listings for new photos and flag those with embedded phone numbers. Early detection allows you to act before customers are affected.

4. Educate your team – Ensure that anyone with contributor access is trained to verify images before publishing. Even a single careless upload can expose your business.

5. Update your contact information – Keep your primary phone number prominent in the GBP description and on your website. If a user calls a number that doesn’t match, you can quickly intervene.

By taking proactive steps, you can shield your business from this emerging threat and maintain the integrity of your online presence.

How to Respond

• Remove suspicious photos: Go to the Photos section, click the image, and choose “Remove” if it looks suspicious.
• Flag the issue: Use the “Report a problem” link on the listing to notify Google of the fake photo.
• Contact Google support: If the problem persists, reach out to Google My Business support with screenshots and a detailed explanation.
• Inform customers: Post a brief notice on your website and social media explaining the issue and reassuring customers that you’ve taken corrective action.
• Use a call‑tracking service: Implement a dedicated tracking number for your GBP. If a call comes in, you can see whether it matches your legitimate number.

Stay Ahead

AI fraud is evolving. Businesses that stay informed and use tools like VisibilityAI to monitor listings for anomalous content will be better positioned to protect their customers and reputation.

Bottom Line

Google Maps phone number scams are a real threat to local businesses. By staying vigilant, regularly reviewing your GBP, and leveraging AI‑powered monitoring, you can prevent customers from falling victim to fraud and keep your online presence trustworthy.