Google Maps will now spot fake reviews and send warnings

Google Maps has become a necessity for people who live life on the go. People open Maps to check the distance, traffic, the best routes, and to check ratings and reviews of. As of late however, fake reviews have been a problem for a lot of Maps users.

Fake reviews can be used to maliciously tarnish a company’s reputation (negative) or to boost a company’s standing (positive). Either way, they are misleading. This is precisely why Google has been taking steps to ensure that reviews are genuine and trustworthy.

In order to avoid these mishaps, Google has started detecting these fake reviews and warning the users against posting the same.

Google Maps: Fake review warnings spotted in the UK

An X user spotted a warning that read “Suspected fake reviews were recently removed”. He posted a screenshot on X (formerly Twitter) highlighting that Google Maps is working towards detecting deception. This particular incident took place in the UK. But, it is still unclear where else these warnings can be seen.

According to Google’s Business Profile policy, any company that violates Google’s rules on fake engagement can be restricted. Fake engagement includes posting or receiving fake reviews. Google can restrict them in a few ways.

ALSO READ: How to save a location on Google Maps

The particular business will not be able to receive new reviews or ratings for a set period of time. Another way would be to unpublish the existing reviews for a set period. The third option would be to display a warning to users about the removal of fake reviews.

Businesses found in violation can appeal Google’s action. It seems likely that the warnings about the fake reviews will remain in place while the appeal is in process.

By displaying these warnings, Google is being a little transparent about the issue of fake reviews. If Google removes the review without leaving a trace, users may not be aware of the shady practices. However, the warning doesn’t mention if the removed reviews were positive or negative. This way, users can make an informed decision.

This new update may help people who are looking to visit the place for the first time. You can check the app on your smartphone to know if the update is available to you as there is no announcement of any such feature roll out from Google’s end. For more tech updates, subscribe to Unboxed by Croma.