Fake Online Reviews and Small Business - Part 1

Negative online reviews can have substantial impact on small business. Sometimes a business owner can have the review removed and sometimes they can’t, even if it is a fake review. There is little policing by some social media websites of reviews. Sometimes it is possible to find out the identity of an anonymous poster, though it may take some work.

Today online reviews are an essential method of advertising. Positive reviews can bring in new customers, and negative reviews can do exactly the opposite. It can be very difficult to assess the exact impact. A poor review can deter potential customers and place a business lower in search-engine rankings. In some extreme cases, negative reviews could put a company out of business.

Likely any business will receive some negative reviews, however they should be from actual customers of the business. A review is a statement of opinion. If the website is limited to postings about a customer experience with a particular business, then someone who has never been a customer of the business can form a legitimate opinion regarding the services of that business.

If the review is submitted by an actual customer, the customer may be willing to take the review down after a discussion or the online platform may take it down if you dispute it. However, online platforms do not automatically reviews down just because someone disputes them. Ultimately the only way to have a review taken down may be through a court order requiring the platform to take the review down. You can respond to the review to provide your position. However, certain professionals have a duty of confidentiality and are limited in what they can say about the details of the relationship with that client or customer.

Some businesses are the subject of fake reviews submitted by people who have never been customers. These reviews do not contribute anything of value to the platform because they do not comment on a genuine customer experience. If you spot a potential fake review, look at any language in the review and determine whether it is consistent with a customer experience. For example, I was the subject of fake online reviews and from the language of some of the reviews, it was clear that the person was not a customer, but rather was commenting on a completely different type of relationship. Does the timing coincide with any relevant event?

You will want an experienced attorney on your side for your one bite at the court apple. An experienced attorney can guide you through defamation matters by negotiating, mediating and litigating. This allows you to focus on moving forward to a better future rather than on spending your time trying to figure out the overly complex court system. Colorado Springs defamation matters are difficult to navigate alone.

The court system is more complex than it should be. Change can be stressful, however it can lead to a better future. Janko Family Law Solutions helps ensure that your best interests are protected and that you are aware of your legal rights and obligations. Contact us at 719-344-5523 or complete our online form to set up a free thirty-minute informational consultation.