What to Do If Someone Leaves a Fake Google Review

Fake Google reviews can feel unfair and damaging, especially when they threaten years of hard-earned reputation. Knowing how to respond gives you control and reassurance when facing this situation.

Spotting a Fake Review

Not every negative review is fraudulent, so it’s worth checking for signs before acting. Look for:

• Reviewer has no profile photo or activity history.
• The review uses vague wording or copy-pasted text.
• Details in the review don’t match your business (wrong product, location, or staff names).
• A sudden influx of low ratings without explanation.

When several of these appear, you’re likely dealing with a fake.

How to Respond Step by Step

Even when you know it’s false, resist the urge to reply in anger. A clear process helps you manage the issue professionally.

1. Gather evidence — take screenshots and note the date, wording, and reviewer name.
2. Flag the review in Google — click the three dots next to the review and select Report review.
3. Submit a formal request — if the review breaches Google’s policies (spam, off-topic, hate speech), use the “Report a policy violation” form in your Google Business dashboard.
4. Craft a public reply — keep it short and calm, stating you have no record of the incident and inviting the person to contact you directly. This shows other readers you take reviews seriously.
5. Escalate if needed — persistent fake reviews can be challenged through Google’s support team or with legal advice if defamation is involved.

Mini Case: Local Café Under Attack

A small café received three one-star reviews in a week, all with identical text claiming “food poisoning.” Staff checked customer records and CCTV but found no matching visits. They flagged the reviews, documented their findings, and replied politely to each one. Within two weeks, Google removed all three. Regulars commented positively afterwards, praising the café’s transparency and professionalism.

Responding calmly and factually reassures potential customers, even before the review is removed.

Conclusion

Fake Google reviews are disruptive, but they don’t need to define your business reputation. By verifying, reporting, and replying with composure, you protect your profile while showing prospective customers you value fairness. If your business faces repeated attacks, consider working with a reputation management partner to stay resilient and get fake google review help.