Google Business Profiles are some of the most effective tools for attracting and converting local clients. As such, many businesses pay extremely close attention to their GBPs to make sure all the information is up to date (as they should!). However, many GBP owners have noticed that their Profile’s info has updated seemingly on its own. Does Google update GBP info?
You may be surprised to learn that Google does indeed update GBP info if it considers it to be incorrect. That’s why you may find that your business’s info was updated without anyone on your team changing a thing.
Remember that Google is in the business of providing (accurate!) information to its users. Its number one priority is making sure the information on its platforms is as accurate as possible. And since your GBP is on a Google website, it’s technically Google’s property–not yours. So, you should always keep an eye on your GBP to prevent any unwanted changes!
Keep reading to learn more about why Google might update your Business Profile.
Incorrect NAP All Over the Internet
NAP (Name, Address, Phone number) is one of the most important things when it comes to Google Business Profiles and local SEO. If you’re unfamiliar with the term, it refers to all mentions of your business both on-site and off-site. In other words, you have to stay on top of any mention of your business all over the internet.
That’s why it’s so important to always update the off-site information of your business any time there is a change. If you move to a different address or change your phone number, you’ll have to spend the time and effort to update your address everywhere on the internet.
If you don’t, then Google will find the information on your GBP contradictory to everything else on the internet. And then they might change it against your will. To prevent this, make sure to periodically do a NAP review of your business.
User Suggestions
The last thing Google wants is to provide incorrect information to its users. So, if users are reporting that your operating hours are incorrect, they may take matters into their own hands and update your operating hours for you.
Make sure the information on your GBP is actually correct. That is, if you list your operating hours as 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, make sure you are actually open during those hours. Otherwise, users may complain to Google.
Google’s AI
This is certainly a new development, but Google is starting to use artificial intelligence to confirm and update Business Profile information. Google isn’t exactly the most transparent when it comes to its algorithms and technology, so we can only speculate how its new AI program is updating businesses.
However, some speculate that they could be using Google Maps imagery to update GBP info. The best way to prevent this is to make sure your in-store information matches your online information
Third-Party Apps Linked to Your Profile
If you’ve granted GBP access to many third-party apps (particularly low quality ones), you may be dealing with one that is changing your profile info for you. It’s always best to minimize the number of third-party services with access to your properties, so visit your Google Account Permissions page and remove any unnecessary apps.
We understand that staying on top of your Business Profile information can be too much of a chore for business owners. Contact Auxilium Technology to discuss how we can help optimize and update your GBP for you so you can focus on what you do best: running your business. Call 301-519-9622 today.
