Google Maps is addressing the issue of fake reviews on business pages by implementing measures to highlight and restrict such activities. The company will now enforce restrictions on business profiles that violate Google’s Fake Engagement policy. These measures may include the temporary removal of reviews, blocking new reviews or ratings, and displaying warning messages on profiles that have had fake reviews removed.
According to Google’s prohibited and restricted content policy, contributions to Maps must reflect genuine experiences at a place or business. Business pages are not allowed to display content that misrepresents a location or product, or that is incentivized by payments, discounts, or freebies given to reviewers. Google Maps will also monitor for reviews that manipulate ratings, such as those posted from multiple accounts or using emulators, modified operating systems, or other methods that simulate genuine engagement.
While it remains uncertain how Google will accurately identify reviews that violate these rules, the potential for public shaming may deter some businesses from attempting to artificially boost their ratings. The presence of warning messages can help users avoid establishments that Google considers untrustworthy, providing more transparency than if suspicious reviews simply disappeared without explanation.
