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Google Maps is cracking down on fake reviews


A user warning will publicly shame places caught using them.

The business profile restrictions were introduced in the UK earlier this year, but Search Engine Roundtable notes that the support page was updated in mid-September to seemingly apply globally. Google Maps will also look for reviews that attempt to manipulate ratings by posting from multiple accounts, or utilize emulators, modified operating systems, or other methods that “mimic genuine engagement.” It’s unclear how Google will accurately determine which reviews violate these rules, but the threat of being publicly shamed may be enough to deter some businesses from trying to artificially inflate their ratings.

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