Google sues man for creating fake businesses on Maps

Google has announced a lawsuit against a man from Maryland for creating fake business listings on Google Maps. The company claims that Yaniv Asayag and up to 20 associates set up these fraudulent businesses to collect personal data from users and sell it to marketers. According to Google, the scam involved creating listings for essential services, such as HVAC cleaning and locksmiths. They used fake reviews to attract unsuspecting consumers. When customers contacted these fake businesses, their personal information was collected and sold. Google's General Counsel, Halimah DeLaine Prado, emphasized the company's commitment to preventing fake business listings. She stated that this lawsuit is part of their efforts to combat fraudulent activities online. The lawsuit also highlights past issues with lead generation scams, referencing a separate case involving a television star sentenced for wire fraud related to a similar scheme. Google claims that the network altered listings for nearly 150 fake businesses and sold the data to real companies with a record of unethical practices. The Federal Trade Commission advises consumers to verify the URL of businesses to avoid scams. They suggest searching for reviews or complaints about a business before engaging with it. Currently, there is no attorney listed for Asayag, and he has not commented on the allegations.