Your reputation is everything. When customers search for your business online, those Google stars often determine whether they call you, visit your website, or keep scrolling.
But what happens when those stars suddenly drop overnight, and you’re flooded with one-star reviews from people you’ve never heard of?
Unfortunately, that’s exactly what’s happening to businesses across the country right now. It’s called review bombing, and it’s become a serious problem on Google.
Here’s what’s going on, why it happens, and what you can do to protect your business.
What’s Really Happening
Many local businesses have been hit with waves of fake one-star reviews, often posted within hours of each other. Sometimes the reviews include short, vague complaints. Other times, they just leave a star rating with no comment at all.
These attacks are often part of an extortion scam. After the fake reviews appear, scammers reach out offering to “fix” your reputation, for a fee of course. It’s frustrating, unfair, and deeply damaging if not handled correctly.
What To Do If It Happens To You
If you wake up to a sudden flood of bad reviews, here’s how to take control quickly and effectively:
Step 1: Do not respond to or pay the scammers
Step 2: Flag the fake reviews immediately
Step 3: Document everything
Step 4: Escalate if needed
Step 5: Post a professional public response
Step 1: Do not respond to or pay the scammers
Never engage with anyone offering to remove reviews for money. This only encourages more attacks and can make you a repeat target.
Step 2: Flag the fake reviews immediately
Sign in to your Google Business Profile and flag each fake review as “spam.” Google will review the reports and often removes them within a few days.
Step 3: Document everything
Step 4: Escalate if needed
If Google has not removed the reviews after three business days, use Google’s dedicated form to report a review scam. Include all your documentation to strengthen your case.
Step 5: Post a professional public response
If you want to address it publicly, post one simple, professional message such as:
“We are aware that our profile is being targeted by fraudulent reviews. We’ve reported this activity to Google and appreciate your patience as we work to resolve it.”
This shows transparency without giving the scammers attention.
How To Spot a Fake Review Attack
Before jumping to conclusions, make sure what you’re seeing isn’t just an unhappy customer or a few unrelated low reviews.
Here are some red flags to look for:
- A sudden surge of multiple 1-star reviews within 24–48 hours
- Reviews with no text or very similar phrasing
- Profiles with no photos, no history, or generic names like “John Doe”
- Reviews that mention contact information or phone numbers (a clear violation of Google’s rules)
- Reviewers that don’t appear in your customer records
If it feels off, it probably is. Trust your instincts and verify through your systems when possible.
Protecting Your Reputation Moving Forward
The best defense is a strong, authentic reputation built over time. Continue encouraging your happy customers to leave real reviews. Consistent positive feedback helps drown out any fake attacks.
You should also make a habit of monitoring your Google Business Profile at least once a week. Catching fake reviews early makes removal much easier.
Does It REALLY Matter?
Yes. Your Google reviews don’t just influence customers, they affect your search rankings and overall visibility. A fake review attack can cause temporary dips in both reputation and SEO performance.
By staying calm, following the right steps, and knowing where to report these scams, you can protect your business and keep your online reputation strong.
Need Help Managing Your Reputation?
At PUSH Design Group, we specialize in helping small businesses protect and grow their online presence. From SEO and Google Business management to full-scale digital marketing support, we make sure your brand stays visible, credible, and trusted.
If you’ve been hit by fake reviews or want to strengthen your local SEO, let’s talk.