So you receive a negative review but something doesn’t quite add up, you’re not sure if this is a legitimate customer? In this article, we’ll provide you with the steps on how to remove fake reviews to minimise the damage on your reputation.
1. Check Google’s Content Guidelines To See If Your Review Can Be Removed
Before you take any action, it’s important to understand the Google’s content guidelines to see what is considered as a fake review and what can be flagged for removal. These guidelines are there to protect your business and help you navigate challenging situations.
What Qualifies As A Fake Review?
- Spam or fake content: Reviews that are inaccurate doesn’t reflect the business or clearly written on fake accounts
- Off topic reviews: Reviews that talk about something that’s not to the your service or experience.
- Restricted content: If the review contains personal information or promotes harmful or illegal activities, it can be removed.
- Illegal content: Reviews that include hateful speech or promotes illegal activities.
- Sexually explicit content: Any inappropriate language falls under Google’s restricted content guidelines.
- Conflict of interest: Reviews from competitors, employees, or anyone with an interest in damaging your reputation can be flagged for removal.
Once you’ve reviewed the guidelines, look closely at the review in question. Does it seem to violate any of the points above? If you’re unsure, it’s still worth flagging for review.
2. Flag The Review On Your GBP
If you believe the review is fake, the next step is to flag it for removal. Google makes this process easy and is often the first step in getting the review taken down.
Here’s how to report the review:
- Log in to your Google business profile – Go to the listing associated with your business.
- Navigate to Reviews – Click on “Read reviews” to view all the feedback for your business.
- Find the Fake Review – On the right hand side of the review, click the three vertical dots.
- Click “Report Review” – A dropdown menu will appear, asking you to provide a reason for flagging. Select the most relevant option (e.g. inappropriate, offensive, etc.) and submit the report.
Once you’ve reported the review, Google will assess it to determine whether it violates their guidelines. It’s a good idea to flag the review even if you’re not completely sure.
What Happens After You Report The Fake Review?
Google usually responds to removal requests within 3 to 5 business days. However, it may take longer in some cases. Make sure to check your email for updates as Google will notify you if the review has been removed.