What the Green Checkmark Means
Listings marked with a green ✓ Verified symbol have been confirmed through Google Business Profile — the most widely used business verification system in the world. Google requires businesses to verify their name, address, and phone number before a profile goes live.
This provides a strong baseline of legitimacy. When you see the green checkmark, you know the business has taken the step of establishing a verified presence on Google.
If a verified listing contains incorrect information, the business owner should update their Google Business Profile directly and sync their WDWW listing. To report a verified listing you believe is fraudulent, please report it to Google directly — Google is the source of verification and handles all disputes for verified listings.
No Checkmark Doesn't Mean No Good
Some listings on WhoDoesWhatWhere.com do not carry the green ✓ Verified symbol. This does not mean the business is illegitimate — many excellent, reputable local businesses simply do not maintain a Google Business Profile.
However, unverified listings have not been independently confirmed. They are entered manually and have not gone through Google's verification process.
We encourage you to:
Ask questions. Request references. Look them up independently. Trust your instincts. In communities both large and small, a quick conversation with a neighbor often tells you everything you need to know.
Something Doesn't Look Right?
If you suspect a business is fraudulently listed in your community and it does not carry the green ✓ Verified symbol, please submit a request for review and we will investigate promptly.
For verified listings you believe are fraudulent, please report directly to Google — they are the verifying authority and have the tools to investigate and remove fraudulent profiles.
Submit a Report →