← Glossary

Platforms

Review filter

A review filter is a platform's automated system for deciding which submitted reviews are displayed and counted.

Yelp's recommendation software is the best-known example and routinely filters a substantial share of submitted reviews, particularly from accounts with little history. Filtered reviews remain visible behind a link but do not count toward the rating.

Filters trigger on reviewer behaviour more than content: new accounts, single reviews, clustered timing, shared networks.

In practice

Never ask customers to repost a filtered review — it violates platform terms and the repost is usually filtered too. Build a base of reviews from established accounts instead.

Common questions

Why did my review disappear?
Almost always a filter rather than a deletion. Check the not-recommended list before assuming removal.

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