Notice Board
Click Fraud Software
I started using ClickCease, which helps block fraudulent IP addresses but cannot block devices. Google does not currently allow device-level blocking, so while the software helps, it only prevents repeat visits, not the initial click. Other options like Fraud Blocker and Lunio claim to offer similar protection.
Impact on the Industry
I’ ve noticed that many local locksmiths in my area have stopped advertising, while identical websites with generic branding- likely run by large call centres- continue to dominate the search results. It appears that these bigger companies are using click fraud to push out smaller, independent locksmiths. There should be a law in force to stop this happening, as it amounts to modern-day theft.
Alternative Strategies
Due to the frustration and lack of support from Google, I turned off my ads in early March, while I worked out the issue myself. Instead, I’ ve been focusing on word-ofmouth marketing, networking with local businesses, and leveraging community social media pages. This has been successful- recently, a happy customer shared a photo of me outside their pub, which brought in a lot of unexpected new business.
Have you heard of this happening elsewhere? Have other companies approached you about this issue? I’ d love to discuss it further and see if there’ s a way to tackle this problem collectively.
help @ eastkentlocksmiths. co. uk 07359 540322 Charlie Church, East Kent Locksmiths
APRIL 2025
15
Issue Takeover locksmithjournal. co. uk