How to Remove a Fake Google Review – Step-by-Step Guide
Negative reviews can be frustrating, but when they are fake, misleading, or malicious, they can severely damage your business’s reputation. Fortunately, Google provides ways to challenge and remove these harmful reviews. In this guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions on how to remove a fake Google review and protect your online credibility.
Step 1: Determine If the Review Violates Google’s Policies
Google has strict content policies, and reviews that violate these guidelines may be removed. Fake reviews often fall under one of the following categories:
Spam or fake content – Reviews that are posted multiple times or from fake accounts.
Conflict of interest – A competitor or an employee leaving a misleading review.
Offensive content – Reviews containing hate speech, threats, or explicit language.
Personal information – Reviews that include private details like phone numbers or addresses.
Irrelevant content – Reviews that do not relate to your business or services.
Check Google’s Review Policy: Google Review Guidelines
If the review fits into any of these categories, you can take action to get it removed.
Step 2: Flag the Fake Review in Google Maps
Once you identify a policy violation, the next step is to report it to Google.
How to Flag a Review on Google Maps:
Go to your Google Business Profile – Open Google Maps and search for your business.
Find the review – Scroll down to the review in question.
Click on the three dots (⋮) next to the review.
Select “Flag as inappropriate.”
Choose the reason that best fits why the review should be removed.
Tip: Google typically reviews flagged reviews within several days, but removal is not guaranteed unless it clearly violates their policies.
Step 3: Contact Google Business Support
If flagging the review does not result in removal, you can escalate the issue by reaching out to Google directly.
How to Contact Google Business Support:
Select “Fix a problem” > “Manage customer reviews”
Explain why the review is fake and how it violates Google’s policies
Attach any evidence (e.g., screenshots, proof of fake account activity, IP tracking if applicable)
Tip: The more details you provide, the higher the chance of success.
Step 4: Respond to the Review Professionally
While waiting for Google’s response, consider posting a professional reply to mitigate the damage of the fake review.
How to Craft a Response:
Acknowledge the review but avoid admitting fault if it’s false.
Politely mention that you have no record of their transaction.
Invite them to contact you directly to resolve the issue.
Example Response: “Hello [Reviewer’s Name], we take customer feedback seriously, but we are unable to locate any record of your experience with our business. Please reach out to us at [email] so we can address this properly. If this was posted in error, we kindly request its removal. Thank you.
Step 5: Prevent Future Fake Reviews
Unfortunately, fake reviews are an ongoing issue. Here’s how you can protect your business from future attacks:
Encourage genuine reviews – Ask real customers to leave authentic feedback.
Monitor your reviews regularly – Set up Google Alerts to track new reviews.
Use reputation management tools – Platforms like BrightLocal, Podium, or ReviewTrackers help monitor online reviews.
Work with a professional – If fake reviews are a recurring issue, it’s time to get expert help.
Need Expert Help? We Specialise in Google Review Removal
Removing fake reviews can be frustrating, time-consuming, and uncertain. At ProAction Labs, we specialise in removing false, misleading, and harmful Google reviews using our industry-leading strategies. With years of experience in online reputation management, we have successfully helped hundreds of businesses regain their credibility.
Proven Strategies – We use expert techniques tailored to Google’s review policies. Fast & Effective Removal – We take action quickly to minimize reputation damage. Confidential & Secure – We ensure your business reputation is restored discreetly.
Need help removing a fake review? Contact ProAction Labs for a FREE consultation today! Get Your Free Reputation Audit Now
By following these steps, you can take control of your online reputation and eliminate fake Google reviews effectively. If you need expert assistance, we’re here to help!