Protecting Local Businesses from Scam Reviews on Google
Local businesses face significant challenges when confronted with fraudulent one-star reviews on platforms like Google Maps and Search. These deceptive reviews can tarnish a business’s reputation, but there is a way to combat them. This guide will walk you through the process of reporting suspicious reviews, potentially safeguarding a business’s good name.
Understanding One-Star Scam Reviews
Not all one-star reviews are fraudulent. Sometimes, they reflect genuine dissatisfaction from customers. However, a recent surge of scam reviews has targeted numerous businesses across the United States. The perpetrators of these reviews often demand payment in exchange for removing the negative feedback.
In response, some businesses have taken a proactive approach by publicly addressing these extortion attempts. Despite these efforts, even a few fraudulent reviews can significantly impact a business’s overall rating. Fortunately, there is a solution: flagging these reviews can help rectify the situation.
Steps to Report and Flag Scam Reviews
If you encounter suspicious reviews on Google Maps or Search, it’s crucial to flag them immediately. This action alerts Google to potential malicious activity. Even if the business has already responded to the scammer, flagging the review ensures it receives further scrutiny.
Flagging on Google Maps or Search via Chrome
1. Locate the Business Profile: Use Google Maps or Google Search to find the business in question.
2. Access Reviews: In Google Search, click on “Google Reviews.” In Google Maps, scroll through the reviews.
3. Identify the Scam Review: Next to the questionable review, click the three-dot menu.
4. Flag the Review: Select “Flag as inappropriate” or “Report review.”
Flagging on Android Devices
Using Google Maps:
1. Open Google Maps: On your Android device, launch the Google Maps app.
2. Search for the Business: Locate the business profile.
3. Find the Review: Tap on “Reviews” and locate the suspicious review.
4. Report the Review: Tap the three-dot menu and select “Report review.”
Using Google Search:
1. Launch Google App: Open the Google app on your Android device.
2. Find the Business Profile: Search for the business you are concerned about.
3. Access Reviews: Scroll through the business’s topics and tap “Reviews.”
4. Report the Review: Tap the three-dot menu and choose “Report review.”
Providing Additional Information
In all instances, after selecting “Report review,” you will be prompted to provide further details. Submitting this information will initiate a review by Google. With any luck, the fraudulent review will be removed, alleviating the undue burden on the affected business.
