Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about SearchByNear — searching, listing, verification, privacy, and more.
Getting Started
What is SearchByNear?
SearchByNear is a free global local directory platform. It helps people find doctors, lawyers, shops, government offices, and any other service or professional near their location. Anyone can search, and any business or individual can create a free listing.
Is SearchByNear free to use?
Yes. Searching the directory is completely free. Creating and managing a profile listing is also free. There are no subscription fees, listing fees, or hidden charges for basic features.
How do I add my business or profile?
Click the Add Profile button in the navigation bar. Fill in your name, profession, contact number, address, and a short description. You can upload a photo from your device or take one with the camera. Submit and your listing will be live immediately.
Do I need to create an account to add a listing?
No. You can submit a listing without an account. However, creating a free account lets you claim your profile, manage its details, and build a verification and trust score.
Verification & Trust
What does it mean to claim a profile?
Claiming a profile proves that you are the real owner of that listing. You claim a profile by verifying the phone number listed on it with an OTP. After claiming, you can edit the profile, add services, upload photos, and build your trust score.
What is OTP verification?
OTP stands for One-Time Password. It is a 6-digit code sent to your mobile number via SMS. Entering the correct code confirms that you have access to that phone number. Mobile OTP verification adds 10 points to your trust score.
What is KYC verification?
KYC (Know Your Customer) verification requires uploading your National ID card or passport — front, back, and a selfie. The SearchByNear team reviews the documents and, if valid, awards 30 trust points and a KYC Verified badge. Processing typically takes 1–3 business days.
What is Business Verification?
Business Verification is the highest level of verification. It requires uploading a trade licence and a bank certificate. Once approved, your profile receives a Business Verified badge and 50 trust points. Available for businesses, shops, clinics, and organisations.
What is the Trust Score?
The Trust Score is a number out of 100 that shows how verified a profile is. It is built from mobile OTP (10 pts), email verification (10 pts), KYC (30 pts), and business verification (50 pts). A higher score means a more trustworthy listing.
Searching & Features
How does the GPS or Near Me search work?
When you allow location access, the platform reads your GPS coordinates and sorts all search results from nearest to farthest. Each result card shows how far the listing is from you. Your location is only used for sorting and is not stored or shared.
What languages does SearchByNear support?
SearchByNear supports 13 languages: English, Bengali, Arabic, Hindi, Urdu, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Indonesian, Chinese (Mandarin), Russian, Turkish, and Farsi. RTL layout is supported for Arabic, Urdu, and Farsi.
Can I list a profile for someone else?
Yes. When adding a profile, choose the For Someone Else option. You can list a doctor, shop, government office, or any entity even if you are not the owner. The profile will show as Listed By [your name] until the real owner claims it.
Safety & Support
How do I report a fake or incorrect profile?
Every profile page has a Report this profile link at the bottom. Click it, select the reason (fake, wrong information, inappropriate content, etc.), and submit. The SearchByNear team reviews all reports and takes action.
Is my personal data safe?
Yes. SearchByNear uses HTTPS encryption, bcrypt password hashing, and JWT authentication. Your data is not sold to third parties. KYC documents are deleted within 90 days of processing. You can request data deletion at privacy@searchbynear.me.
How do I contact SearchByNear for support?
Email support@searchbynear.me for general help, privacy@searchbynear.me for data questions, and legal@searchbynear.me for legal matters. The team typically responds within 24–48 hours on business days.
Still have a question?
Our team typically responds within 24–48 hours on business days.