Google Maps intensifies global crackdown on fake reviews with stricter measures & warnings

Google Maps is intensifying its efforts to combat fake reviews by rolling out stricter measures against businesses that engage in such practices. These measures include temporarily removing reviews, blocking new reviews or ratings, and displaying warning messages on the profiles of offending businesses. Initially introduced in the UK earlier this year, these review restrictions are now being expanded globally, although only UK users currently see the warning messages.

When fake reviews are deleted, a warning message will be displayed on the affected business profiles to inform users about the activity. This initiative aligns with Google’s Fake Engagement policy, which prohibits businesses from posting content that does not reflect genuine experiences or misrepresents their location or product. Reviews incentivized through payments, discounts, or freebies also violate Google’s prohibited content policy. Additionally, businesses using multiple accounts, emulators, or modified operating systems to manipulate reviews are in violation of Google’s rules.

Google's approach includes publicly shaming businesses as a deterrent to discourage fake reviews. These warning messages aim to help users avoid untrustworthy places by providing more information rather than merely removing suspicious reviews without explanation.