All
October 9, 2025

How to Report and Remove Fake Google Reviews (Step-by-Step Guide)

Tired of fake reviews hurting your business? Here’s how to spot, report, and remove them—fast. Plus, see how Mobal keeps your reputation spotless across Google, Apple, and more.
Ev charging stations
Published on
October 9, 2025
Key takeaways
  • Fake reviews can damage your reputation and scare away real customers.
  • Google lets you report and remove reviews that break their rules—but you need to know what counts as “fake.”
  • Learn how to spot the difference between legit feedback and shady reviews.
  • Mobal makes managing and monitoring your reviews across all platforms effortless.

Why Fake Google Reviews Are a Big Deal

Let’s be blunt: one fake review can cost you real money. Whether it’s a competitor playing dirty or a random troll, fake reviews can tank your rating and turn away customers before you even get a chance.

But here’s the good news—Google doesn’t want fake reviews either. If you know what to look for (and how to report them), you can keep your reputation clean and your business booming.

What Counts as a Fake Google Review?

Not every bad review is fake. Here’s how to tell the difference:

Legitimate Review Examples

  • “The staff was friendly, but my order took a little longer than expected. Food was great though!”
  • “I visited on a busy Saturday and had to wait, but the service made up for it.”

These are real experiences—even if they’re not all five stars.

Fake Review Examples

  • “This place is a scam. I’ve never been, but my friend said it’s awful.”
  • “Terrible service, avoid at all costs!” (posted by someone who’s never been a customer)
  • Reviews with suspicious patterns—like multiple 1-star ratings from accounts with no profile photos or review history.

If it sounds fishy, it probably is.

Step-by-Step: How to Report a Fake Google Review

1. Sign in to Google Business Profile

Head to your Google Business Profile Manager. If you’re not already verified, do that first. (No control, no cleanup.)

2. Find the Fake Review

Go to the “Reviews” section. Scroll until you spot the review that doesn’t belong.

3. Flag the Review

  • Click the three dots next to the review.
  • Select “Flag as inappropriate.”
  • Choose the reason (like “Spam” or “Conflict of interest”).

Pro tip: Be specific! The more details, the better.

4. Wait for Google’s Review

Google will investigate—usually within a few days. If the review breaks their rules, it’s gone. If not, you’ll get a notification.

5. Follow Up (If Needed)

If Google doesn’t remove the review, don’t give up. You can:

  • Contact Google Business Support directly.
  • Gather evidence (screenshots, customer records) to back up your claim.
  • Respond publicly to the review (keep it professional and factual).

What NOT to Do

  • Don’t try to “fight fire with fire” by posting fake positive reviews. Google’s smarter than that.
  • Never pay for review removal services—they’re usually scams.
  • Don’t ignore fake reviews. They won’t go away on their own.

Check out our guide on how to reply to negative reviews on Google.

How Mobal Makes Review Management Effortless

Managing reviews across Google, Apple, Bing, and Facebook? That’s a full-time job—unless you use Mobal.

With Mobal, you can:

  • Monitor all your reviews in one dashboard
  • Get instant alerts for suspicious activity
  • Flag and respond to reviews across every platform—fast
  • Keep your reputation spotless, everywhere customers search

One login, total control. That’s how you win.

Summary: Take Back Control of Your Reputation

Fake reviews don’t have to ruin your business. By learning how to spot, report, and remove them—and using tools like Mobal—you can protect your reputation and keep customers coming through the door.

Ready to clean up your reviews? Book a demo -> See your reputation soar.

FAQs About Fake Google Reviews

How long does it take for Google to remove a fake review?
Usually a few days, but it can take longer if Google needs more info.

What if Google won’t remove the review?
Gather evidence and contact Google Support. You can also respond publicly to set the record straight.

Can I sue someone for posting fake reviews?
In extreme cases, yes—but start with Google’s reporting tools first.

How can I prevent fake reviews in the future?
Monitor your listings regularly (or let Mobal do it for you), encourage real customers to leave honest feedback, and respond quickly to anything suspicious.

Don’t let fake reviews call the shots. Take action today—Mobal’s got your back.

Get started  today
Transform how you do business. Own your digital future.
Book a free demo
contact us today
White Arrow
A screenshot of restaurants on Google Maps.
See how you stack up against your local competition
Discover how you stack up against nearby competition and uncover opportunities to win more customers.
Generate free report
Read about our privacy policy.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Join 8000+ businesses reaching more customers online with Mobal

Save time, reach more customers

Aitame ettevõtetel veebis edukaks saada

Broneeri demo
Icon
Icon
Icon