Rip-off passenger locator forms ‘top of Google search’

Latest News

Rip-off passenger locator forms ‘top of Google search’

By Alexandra Leonards

29/7/2021

Websites charging people for free Covid-19 passenger locator forms are located at the top of Google search results, according to a report by the BBC.

The broadcaster found several rip-off ads topping the Google’s search results on Wednesday, even though the company said it had removed a number of them.

"It's no surprise that these copycat firms have found yet another route to try and make money out of people for something that is free," Guy Anker, deputy editor of consumer website Money Saving Expert told the BBC.

Anker added that if Google is being user-first, it would be in its users’ best interest not to feature these ads.

He said that the tech giant should instead make sure that the official site for passenger locator forms and other documents come near the top of any search.

The future-ready CFO: Driving strategic growth and innovation

This National Technology News webinar sponsored by Sage will explore how CFOs can leverage their unique blend of financial acumen, technological savvy, and strategic mindset to foster cross-functional collaboration and shape overall company direction. Attendees will gain insights into breaking down operational silos, aligning goals across departments like IT, operations, HR, and marketing, and utilising technology to enable real-time data sharing and visibility.

The corporate roadmap to payment excellence: Keeping pace with emerging trends to maximise growth opportunities

In today's rapidly evolving finance and accounting landscape, one of the biggest challenges organisations face is attracting and retaining top talent. As automation and AI revolutionise the profession, finance teams require new skillsets centred on analysis, collaboration, and strategic thinking to drive sustainable competitive advantage.