If your GBP listing has been suspended from public view, you can restore it by following Google’s process.

Here’s what Google has to say about fixing a suspended listing: 

Review the Google Business Profile guidelines and restricted content guidelines.

• Review your listing for compliance with the guidelines.
• Once you ensure your locations comply with Google’s guidelines and include all required information, you can request reinstatement.

• Chances are that you got suspended because Google thinks you are providing false information. You’ll need to provide Google with proof that you’re running a legitimate business.
• Reaching out to GBP support is a process that can take some time. Google has recently started suspending more listings to promote an authentic ecosystem.
• If you’re facing a suspension, Google may ask for your business license, a utility bill showing your address, or, if you’re using a shared workspace, photographic proof that you’re sharing the space with other businesses. Google support will let you know exactly what you need to provide. 

TYPES OF GBP SUSPENSIONS

There are two different types of GBP suspensions: soft suspensions and hard suspensions.

SOFT SUSPENSION

A soft suspension means that your GBP listing is still up, but that you’re no longer managing the listing. In this case, Google has removed you as the admin. 

HARD SUSPENSION

In this case, your business listing is no longer available to the public. If you want to make your Google Business Profile listing available to the public, you’ll have to appeal to Google. 

WHY IS GOOGLE SUSPENDING LISTINGS?

It’s been reported that there are fake listings on Google. Some of them can be scammers posing as legitimate businesses, and some might be businesses trying to increase their visibility in “near me” searches.

Google has been taking steps to remove these fake profiles. Unfortunately, some real businesses can be caught in the crossfire.

COMMON CAUSES FOR A GBP SUSPENSION

Here are some reasons why the Google Business Profile account might be suspended. 

• Claiming to be open 24 hours a day 
• Information within your profile has recently changed
• Having your address linked to a virtual address or PO Box 
• The actual business name is different from the Google Business Profile name 
• Having a primary category in a high-risk industry (plumbing, locksmithing, home services) 
• Having multiple listings from the same address

HOW TO PREVENT A GBP SUSPENSION?

If your GBP is up and you want to avoid a suspension in the future, here’s how you can take preventive action. 

• Stick to Google’s guidelines
• Take high-definition photos of your business 
• Ensure that your name on Google Business Profile is your business’s actual name 
• Ensure that your address is at a permanent location. Google does not allow virtual locations 
• Use a local phone number rather than a call center line 
• Ensure that your business hours are up-to-date 
• Ensure that your Google Business Profile categories are accurate 

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