Ep 128: What and why of review fraud on Google & how to deal with it

Part 1 starts 00:13 - The big picture of review fraud - who does it and why

We explore the full range of review fraud from fake positive reviews, black hat negative reviews and review extortion with Curtis Boyd of the Transparency Company. How widespread is it, is it growing, which categories are most likely to participate in it and why.

Segment Reference Articles: Askfortransparency.com

Part 2 starts 15:36 - How to deal with fake review attacks and competitors who use fake reviews

If you are an honest business can you compete in a world rife with review fraud. We discuss how to deal with fake review attacks and how to get fake reviews that your competitors have gotten taken down.

Segment Reference Articles

Google Business redressal form

Step-by-Step Guide to Fighting Fake Google Review Attacks

Missing Google Reviews: A Step-by-Step Recovery Guide

Part 3 starts 22:29 - The FTC and fake review guidelines and rules

The FTC has been upping their enforcement game with new Guidelines which set a standard and upcoming Rules which will facilitate their ability to impose fines on buyers and sellers of reviews. The major platforms are largely exempt from any enforcement but their is language in the upcoming FTC rules that makes a business fully responsible for compliance.

Segment Reference Articles

Trade Regulation Rule on the Use of Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

The FTC Guidelines: Everything you need to know (presentation)

Part 4 starts 30:13 - The Future of Reviews: What will see over the next 24 months in review spam & possible enforcement

New rules from the FTC and better filters from Google might turn the corner on fake reviews but the lack of FTC resources and the lack of Google’s focus may prevent that from happening