VerifySweep Investigation Methodology

1. Intake

We preserve what the reporter submitted and label it as reporter-provided information. Screenshots, URLs, phone numbers, addresses and other materials retain their source context.

2. Independent verification

Where possible, VerifySweep checks claims against authoritative sources such as credential directories, business records, the business's own public pages and the live listing being reported.

3. Relationship analysis

Shared phone numbers, websites, domains, addresses, copy patterns and prior cases may indicate that listings are related. A relationship is described as a potential or supported relationship based on the evidence available—not automatically as fraud.

4. Human review

Automated systems can prioritize patterns and organize evidence, but consequential conclusions require human review. Conflicting evidence is retained rather than hidden.

5. Evidence labels

Cases should use plain status language so readers can tell what is known: Reporter-provided, Observed, Independently verified, Potential relationship, Supported relationship, Disputed, and Platform outcome. Avoid labels such as “fraudulent” unless an authoritative source has actually made that finding.

6. Reporting and outcomes

VerifySweep can help prepare factual evidence for the appropriate platform or organization. Google, certification bodies and other authorities make their own enforcement decisions. VerifySweep does not guarantee removal or disciplinary action.

Corrections and disputes

A business or professional who believes information is inaccurate should be able to provide contrary evidence. Material corrections should be logged so the case history shows what changed and why.