# How to respond to competitor sabotage reviews

> Suspected competitor-planted 1-star? The reply, the flag, and the escalation that actually gets these removed.

_Updated 2026-07-21 · By Elizabeth Davis_

Source: https://happyreplies.com/how-to/respond-to-competitor-sabotage

## 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.

## Overview

Competitor-planted reviews are a policy violation Google takes seriously — but only if you provide the evidence.

## Steps

### 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.