How to Remove Fake Google Reviews in 5 Easy Steps

You’re at your desk, checking emails, attending calls, and moving through the usual workday.

Then it happens: a notification pops up about a one star review on Google. To make things worse, the comment is negative and damaging.

Of course, you’re upset… who wouldn’t be? But as you look closer, it becomes clear this review isn’t from a real customer — it’s fake.

Now you’re browsing the web, searching for a way to get it off your business page.

It’s a hassle, we know.

That’s why this guide will walk you through how to properly remove those pesky fake Google reviews and protect your reputation.

Can You Delete a Fake Google Review?

Yes. You can delete a fake Google review, but only if it violates Google’s review policies (e.g., spam, conflict of interest, offensive content). Otherwise, it won’t be removed just because it’s negative or you disagree with it.

What Happens If You Don’t Remove a Fake Google Review?

Fake reviews do not just sit harmlessly on your Google Business Profile. They can create lasting damage if left unchecked.

Loss of Customer Trust and Credibility

When prospects see negative reviews, even if they are fake, they may assume the worst. A lower star rating makes your business look less reliable and encourages people to choose competitors instead.

READ MORE: Signs You Have a Bad Reputation

Negative Impact on Search Visibility

Google’s local ranking algorithm factors in review quality and quantity.

Fake reviews that stay up can drag down your average rating, which may hurt your chances of appearing in the “Local 3-Pack” and reduce visibility to potential customers.

RECOMMENDED: Does Responding to Reviews Help SEO

Long-Term Damage to Revenue and Growth

Unchecked fake reviews can accumulate over time, shaping the online reputation of your business. This can result in fewer calls, less foot traffic, reduced leads, and ultimately a measurable hit to your bottom line.

ALSO CHECK: How Much Does a Bad Review Cost

How to Delete a Fake Google Review the Right Way

To remove a fake Google review, you must follow Google’s process and provide clear evidence that it violates their policies.

Step 1. Confirm That the Review Violates Google’s Policies

Start by checking if the review fits Google’s definition of a policy violation such as spam, impersonation, or conflict of interest. A negative opinion is not enough for removal, so confirming this step is essential.

Step 2. Report the Review Through Your Business Profile

Log in to your Google Business Profile, locate the review, and click the three dot menu to select Report Review. This sends the review to Google for evaluation.

Step 3. Gather and Save Evidence

Take screenshots, copy the reviewer’s profile link, and document any suspicious activity such as multiple reviews from the same account. This evidence will help if you need to escalate the issue later.

Step 4. Submit an Appeal to Google Business Support

If your initial report does not work, file an appeal through Google Business Support. Provide the evidence you collected and explain clearly why the review is fake.

Template

Subject: Request for Removal of Fake Google Review

Message:

Hello Google Support Team,

I am the verified owner of [Business Name] at [Business Address] and request removal of a review that violates Google’s policies.

Review Details:

• Reviewer: [Name]
• Date: [Date]
• Link: [URL]

Reason for Removal:

This review appears fake because [select: false claims / competitor post / spam / no record of interaction].

Evidence:

• Screenshots
• Customer records
• Noted suspicious activity

Please review this case and remove the flagged content to maintain the integrity of our profile.

Thank you,

[Your Name]

[Your Position]

[Business Name]

[Contact Email / Phone]

Step 5. Respond Professionally in the Meantime

While waiting for Google’s decision, write a short and professional public response. This shows potential customers that you care and helps protect your credibility.

Public Reply Template

“Hi [Reviewer Name], we take feedback seriously, but we cannot find any record of your visit or transaction with us.

Please reach out to us directly at [phone/email] so we can understand your concern.

In the meantime, we are reviewing this with Google to ensure accuracy on our profile.”

How Long Does It Take Google to Remove a Fake Review?

There is no set timeline, but most flagged reviews are reviewed within a few days to a couple of weeks. If Google decides not to remove it, you can submit an appeal with additional evidence.

Final Thoughts

Dealing with fake Google reviews can feel overwhelming, but you now know the right steps to report them, protect your reputation, and move forward with confidence.

Wherever you go from here, we want to wish you good luck — whether that means responding to feedback more effectively, learning how reliable online reviews really are, or exploring ways to strengthen your reputation through reputation marketing.

If you’re curious about handling reviews on other platforms, you might find our guide on how to respond to a bad Yelp review useful as well.

For those who want to take the next step, we invite you to explore our blog or learn more about the tools we use to help businesses grow through reviews, referrals, insights, and repeat customers.

We also work closely with specific industries, so if you’re in law, dental, medical, med spas, plumbing, or landscaping, we have dedicated solutions tailored for you.

You can always reach us directly if you’d like to talk about protecting and growing your reputation.

And if you’re ready to dive deeper, start here on our homepage — we’re here to help you turn reviews into one of your strongest growth channels.