The invoice that you just received for “domain renewal” may actually be a solicitation. The call from someone claiming to “work with Google” is probably not actually Google. Requests to “verify your address” may just be an attempt to sell you an expensive and unneeded internet search product.
One of our most popular blog posts last year highlighted the need for vigilance in sorting through the endless stream of shady internet marketers attempting to scam dentists. That situation hasn’t changed and we continue to see the number of con artists grow. Here are four guidelines to keep your dental practice safe against internet marketing scams:
Know who you already work with.
First, it’s important for your staff to know what companies you are currently involved with for your practice website and internet marketing. This way, if you receive mail or a call from someone else, you immediately know to research more closely. If you have any question about the legitimacy of an advertisement or invoice, call your representative and ask for their input.
Be aware of common internet marketing scams.
One of the most frequent scams we see involves the registration of your domain name. You should know that your website address and the contact information connected to it are public information and that anyone can send you mail about them. These solicitations often masquerade as an invoice when in fact they are simply trying to get you to transfer registration to them. Read the fine print and understand what you are supposedly paying for.
Additionally, we have seen a huge increase in the number of phone calls that dentists are receiving from companies claiming to be Google when in fact these calls are usually from re-sellers of Google products. Google will NEVER ask you to pay a fee to appear higher on organic search listings.
Ask questions.
Don’t give anyone your money if you aren’t 100% certain about the validity of a phone call or mailing. If a caller claims to be from Google, find out for sure by asking if they are a Google affiliate or if they are truly from Google. Ask for a web address or to be sent information in writing. Forward anything you may have questions about to your current website representative. Verify everything.
Learn more about how websites and internet marketing work.
The best way to combat internet marketing scams is to get educated. One way that you can start is by subscribing to our blog. Smile Savvy gives away tons of free advice and information so that you can make the best informed decisions about marketing your dental practice online.
Just need the basics? Here are our top three blog posts that will get you started and make you more savvy:
If you have a question about a phone call or anything you have received in the mail don’t hesitate to contact us.
