Last Updated on: 17th May 2024, 04:00 pm
Stay Visible, Stay Safe: Avoid Google Suspension!
One of the most common and critical mistakes local businesses make on their profiles is failing to adhere to Google’s guidelines, which can lead to potential suspensions. As a local business marketing expert and co-founder of Simply Be Found, I’ve reviewed countless profiles and noticed a recurring issue that significantly impacts businesses’ visibility and can lead to Google suspensions.

Google’s stringent guidelines for business profiles are designed to verify the exactness and credibility of the information shared with users. However, many business owners unintentionally violate these guidelines, which can result in severe consequences. The critical mistake? Including contact information in prohibited areas of your Google Business Profile.
Understanding the Guidelines
Google’s policies clearly state that business profiles should not contain contact information in places such as photos, business descriptions, or business names. This includes your phone, email, street address, and website URL. Violating this rule can lead to your profile being flagged and potentially suspended.
Why This Rule Exists
Google’s primary goal is to maintain the integrity of the information provided through its platform. When contact details are included in unauthorized places, it prevents Google from accurately tracking user interactions with your profile. Google uses these interactions to provide businesses with valuable analytics and to promote ad services. By adhering to the guidelines, you ensure that Google can track and report these interactions correctly, which in turn helps you understand how users engage with your profile.
The Common Critical Mistakes
Despite these clear guidelines, many businesses still include contact information in prohibited areas. This mistake often stems from the desire to make it possible for potential customers to contact them. While the intention is good, the result can be disastrous. Google’s algorithms regularly scan business profiles for such violations, and repeated infractions can lead to a suspension of your profile.
How to Correct Your Profile
To avoid suspension and ensure your profile complies with Google’s guidelines, follow these steps:
- Review Your Profile: Go through your Google Business Profile thoroughly. Check every section to ensure no contact information is included in the business name, description, or photos.
- Update Incorrect Information: If you find any contact information in prohibited areas, remove it immediately. Instead, use the designated sections for Google’s contact details.
- Utilize Post Features: Google Business Profile allows you to create posts that can include a call-to-action (CTA) such as “Call Now” or “Visit Website.” Use these features to direct customers to your contact information without violating guidelines.
- Stay Updated on Guidelines: Google frequently updates its policies and guidelines. Make it a habit to review these updates regularly to ensure your profile remains compliant.
Additional Tips for Enhancing Your Profile
While ensuring compliance with Google’s guidelines, you can implement other best practices to enhance your profile’s effectiveness and boost your local SEO.
- Complete Every Section: Ensure every section of your profile is filled out accurately and completely. This includes business hours, services offered, and a detailed business description.
- High-Quality Photos: Use high-quality photos that represent your business well. Avoid including text or contact information in these images.
- Collect and Respond to Reviews: Motivate happy clients to post favorable reviews on your profile. Address both positive and negative reviews to demonstrate your appreciation for customer feedback.
- Regular Updates: Update your profile regularly with the newest business data. This includes changes in operating hours, new services, or special promotions.
Avoiding Suspension: A Real-Life Example
Consider a local restaurant that added their phone number and website URL to the description and photos of their Google Business Profile. Despite receiving positive reviews and high engagement, their profile was suspended due to these violations. The suspension caused a noticeable decrease in visibility and customer inquiries. They could reinstate their profile and regain their online presence by removing the prohibited contact information and utilizing Google’s post features to share contact details.
The Importance of Accurate Location Information
Another critical aspect of maintaining a compliant profile is ensuring accurate location information. Even if you have a hidden address, including your city, state, and zip code in the appropriate sections is crucial. This helps Google accurately place your business in local search results, enhancing your visibility to potential customers in your area.
Streamline Your Marketing and Avoid Suspension with Simply Be Found
In conclusion, avoiding the critical mistake of including contact information in prohibited areas of your Google Business Profile is essential to maintaining your online presence and avoiding suspension. Regularly reviewing and updating your profile according to Google’s guidelines will help you stay compliant and maximize your business’s visibility
Consider using Simply Be Found to simplify your marketing efforts and ensure your business is found online. Our platform helps local companies optimize their online presence and reach up to 300 networks with just one submission. Don’t risk suspending your Google Business Profile—let Simply Be Found guide you to success.

Visit Simply Be Found today to learn more about our free and paid plans and how we can help your business thrive.