Ep 164: (From the vault) What and why of review fraud on Google & how to deal with it
We are taking this week off but thought you would enjoy this episode published last fall: The big picture of review fraud - who does it & why, how to deal with fake review attacks and competitor's fake reviews, the FTC and fake review guidelines and rules
![Ep 164: (From the vault) What and why of review fraud on Google & how to deal with it](/content/images/size/w2000/2024/07/DALL-E-2024-07-04-12.08.39---A-dramatic-scene-of-a-person-stealthily-stealing-reviews-from-a-bank-vault.-The-vault-is-massive--with-thick-steel-doors-wide-open--revealing-stacks-o.jpeg)
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