Red flags we look for
8 Signs A Google Review Is Fake
Before we file, our analysts audit every review against Google's written policies. If it matches one or more of these signals, it's a strong candidate for removal.
No purchase history
Reviewer never bought, booked, or visited - a policy violation on every major platform.
Copy-paste patterns
Same wording appearing across competitor pages within a short time window.
Wrong geography
IP or reviewer city has no logical connection to your service area.
Competitor sabotage
New account, one review, targeting only your business - a classic drive-by.
Off-topic content
Complaints about a different company, unrelated product, or personal grievance.
Wrong entity
Review posted on a duplicate GBP or old page you no longer operate.
Extortion attempts
Reviewer messaged you asking for a refund, discount, or free service to remove it.
Defamation & slurs
Named individuals, false criminal claims, hate speech, or profanity.