Google Shows Warning on Business Profiles With Fake Reviews in Google Maps

Highlights

• Google Maps displays a warning when fake reviews have been removed from a business listing.
• Businesses with fake reviews will have new reviews temporarily blocked.
• The warning feature has begun rolling out in the UK and the US.

Fake reviews on business profiles in Google Maps are a grave issue often highlighted by users. In a renewed effort to manage the menace of fake reviews, Google is now introducing a new warning feature on Google Maps.  The search engine will flag a warning on business listings whenever fake reviews are removed.

Google Maps are often used to know more about businesses listed and reviews more often than not help reveal first-hand information. However, the review section is also one of the most exploited territories of Google Maps. Many businesses create fake reviews in order to boost a positive opinion online.

Moreover, it is not always the positive reviews that exploit the review section of business listing. There have been instances when businesses were targeted with false negative reviews that hamper their public opinion.

Google recognized the impact of these fake reviews long ago.

To address this issue, Google has created a reporting system where seemingly fake reviews can be reported. However, the effectiveness of these measures in holding businesses or users posting fake reviews responsible has been unclear.

According to a recent Search Engine Roundtable report, Google has started rolling out a new warning feature.

Google Maps will notify viewers via a warning card on the business listing whenever fake reviews are removed from the business listing.

As per reports, this feature was first noticed in the UK. It is now rolling out in the US as well.

Moreover, businesses affected by fake reviews are also likely to face restrictions.

In the UK suspected review abuse can lead to a 30 day review ban pic.twitter.com/m2eMY5hFrp

— Mike Blumenthal (@mblumenthal) September 16, 2024

“If we determine that a business owner has violated our Fake Engagement policy, we might place restrictions on their Business Profile (in addition to removing the violative reviews),” Google specifies on its Google Business Profile help page.

Some UK users have reported that new reviews will be temporarily blocked on profiles where fake reviews are removed. Existing reviews and ratings may also be unpublished from the listing page during Google’s investigation.

It is still unclear if Google is rolling out the warning flag worldwide or only in select regions.

As of now, if you do not see a similar feature in your geographical area, expect an update soon.

FAQs

 What new feature has Google introduced on Google Maps fake reviews?

Google has introduced a warning feature on Google Maps that notifies users when fake reviews have been removed from a business listing. This aims to enhance transparency and trustworthiness in the review system.

What restrictions do businesses face for fake reviews on Google Maps?

Businesses affected by fake reviews will have new reviews temporarily blocked, and existing reviews and ratings may be unpublished during Google’s investigation. This ensures the integrity of the reviews while the issue is being addressed.

What is the fake review warning on Google Maps?

In a renewed effort to manage the menace of fake reviews, Google is now introducing a new warning feature on Google Maps.  The search engine will flag a warning on business listings whenever fake reviews are removed.

How to report scam business reviews on Google Maps ?

To report scam business reviews on Google Maps :-

1. Open Google Maps: Locate the business profile you want to report.

2. Tap on the three dots in the top right corner of the business profile.
3. ⁠Select “Report” from the menu.

4. Choose the reason for reporting: Select the option that best describes the issue, such as “Fake or misleading content.”

5. Provide additional details: If necessary, explain why you believe the review is fake or misleading.
6. Submit the report: Google will review your report and take appropriate action.

What is important in reporting fake reviews on Google Maps?

While reporting fake reviews can help to improve the accuracy of Google Maps, it’s important to be mindful of your own words and avoid making false accusations.

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