Guide · Updated Jul 2026
How to respond to competitor sabotage reviews
Competitor-planted reviews are a policy violation Google takes seriously — but only if you provide the evidence.
TL;DR
Reply factually — never accuse in public. Flag through Google Business Profile citing 'conflict of interest' or 'fake engagement'. Document patterns (same IP range, similar phrasing) and escalate through the support form.
Step by step
- 1
Reply calmly, no accusations
'We can't match this description to any visit — please email so we can look into it.'
- 2
Flag as conflict of interest
Three-dot menu → Flag → choose Conflict of interest or Fake engagement.
- 3
Document patterns
Screenshot reviews with similar phrasing, same posting times, same reviewer histories. Google's escalation team wants patterns, not single incidents.
- 4
File through the Support form
'Report a review for removal' → attach the evidence bundle. Success rate is meaningfully higher with patterns documented.
FAQ
- Is competitor sabotage illegal?
- In the US, the FTC's 2024 rule makes it a finable offence. In the UK it's actionable under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024.
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