How to Report Fake Reviews on Google My Business: A Comprehensive Guide for Businesses

Business owners need to take an active role in monitoring and managing the reviews on Google My Business (GMB) to ensure the integrity and authenticity of their online presence. Fake reviews can severely damage a business's reputation and customer trust. This guide provides a detailed look at the steps businesses can take to address fraudulent reviews.

Why Monitor Reviews?

Monitoring reviews is crucial because fake reviews can mislead potential customers and harm a business's reputation. These reviews can be difficult to identify, but taking proactive steps can help maintain a positive online presence. In this article, we will walk you through the steps to report fake reviews on GMB.

Steps to Report Fake Reviews on Google My Business

1. Flag the Review

The first step in addressing suspicious reviews is to flag them as inappropriate. Here's how to do it:

Locate the review in question on GMB. Click 'flag as inappropriate.' A report will be sent to Google's team, who will investigate the potential fraud.

2. Contact the Reviewer Directly

Once flagged, it's beneficial to contact the reviewer directly. Here's what you can do:

Identify the reviewer and try to contact them. Request additional information or evidence about their experience with your business. This step can help you understand if the negative review stems from a genuine issue or a separate incident.

3. Report Directly through GMB Support Team

If the review remains questionable, you can report it directly through the GMB support team. Here's how:

Visit the GMB support page online. Contact the support team via email or phone. Provide detailed information about why you believe the review is fraudulent, including evidence that the reviewer falsely represents themselves as a customer.

Note that GMB typically aims to address complaints within 48 hours. However, resolution time may vary depending on the workload and current schedules.

4. Fill Out Dispute Forms

If the other methods do not resolve the issue, you can submit an abuse report. Here's what to include:

Documentation supporting your claims that the reviews are not genuine customer experiences. This can include: Screenshots Purchase receipts

Fill out the Disputing Reviews section in the abuse report form. Ensure all required evidence is submitted to increase the chances of a positive outcome.

Conclusion

By actively monitoring and reporting fake reviews, businesses can protect their online reputation and ensure that only genuine customer feedback is represented. Staying vigilant and following these steps will help businesses maintain a positive and trustworthy presence on Google My Business.