Google Maps Spam

[SEOMalc]

Ok, firstly I'm in a bad mood because my pregnant wife is keeping me awake at night :( . I probably woudn't have let this bother me had this not been the case.

I have been trying to evaluate if reporting spam to Google actually does anything. While doing research into the marketplace for a client I stumbled upon a spammo site that was doing very well in the SERPs. I reported it -> Nothing. 3 months later I reported it -> Nothing.

Today I noticed they have registered with Google Maps using a false postcode meaning if you search with the local phrase they appear first on the map listings too :eek: Its AA Aardvark for Yellow Pages all over again ;)

Does anyone know if there is any kind of checks, spam control on Google Maps ? I mean if they are going to make the map appear at the top of the SERPs they should at least check to see its not being spammed.

SEOMalc

[andrewgoodman]

Well, the way this is supposed to work sort of depends on the listing, I think - but a part of the strategy Google's using to combat maps and local spam is to send a postcard that comes to a physical address, that you then need to validate.

I'm sure they'd be interested at Google to understand ways spammers are going to attempt to game the system.

I know we're not supposed to do spam reporting on forums - but some general idea of what type of spam it is, what locale, etc. might be a start. Depending on what the other moderators here think it would be a good idea to allow more detail so others including Google can understand.

[beu]

Well, the way this is supposed to work sort of depends on the listing, I think - but a part of the strategy Google's using to combat maps and local spam is to send a postcard that comes to a physical address, that you then need to validate.

I'm sure they'd be interested at Google to understand ways spammers are going to attempt to game the system.

I know we're not supposed to do spam reporting on forums - but some general idea of what type of spam it is, what locale, etc. might be a start. Depending on what the other moderators here think it would be a good idea to allow more detail so others including Google can understand.

You can also verify new listings via phone and/or submit bulk listings via Google Base.

First, I would check out the "Provided by the business owner" section to see who provided the information. Then I would try to edit the bogus listing myself.

see: maps. google. com /support /bin/answer.py?answer=15391&topic=1481

You might also consider a coupon. Good luck!