How to Delete a Google Review

Wondering how to delete a Google review? While you can’t directly remove all reviews, this guide will show you step-by-step instructions on how to report and delete inappropriate or fake reviews on Google.

Can You Delete a Google Review?

No, businesses cannot directly delete Google reviews. However, Google does allow users and businesses to flag inappropriate reviews for removal if they violate specific policies. These include reviews that are fake, contain inappropriate content, spam, or violate Google’s review guidelines.

For reviews that don’t meet removal criteria, responding professionally is the best way to manage them.

Steps to Delete or Report a Google Review

Step 1: Sign in to Your Google Business Profile

Before you can manage or report any reviews, you must sign in to your Google Business Profile.

Step 2: Navigate to Reviews

After signing in, click on the “Reviews” tab on your dashboard. Here, you’ll see a list of all reviews that your business has received.

Step 3: Flag Inappropriate Reviews

For any review that violates Google’s guidelines (fake, spam, inappropriate), click the three vertical dots next to the review and select “Flag as inappropriate.”

Step 4: Select why you are reporting the review & submit to google to review.

A window will pop up, choose the reason why your reporting the review. Once this is done make sure to click the blue submit button to send your request to google.

Step 5: Follow Up With Google Support

If you believe the review in question needs further attention, you can contact Google Business Support for help. Keep records of why the review should be removed, such as proof of it being fake.

What Types of Google Reviews Can Be Removed?

Only certain types of reviews qualify for removal. These include:

• Fake Reviews: Reviews left by individuals who haven’t had any actual experience with your business.
• Inappropriate or Offensive Reviews: Reviews containing inappropriate language, offensive content, or hate speech.
• Spam Reviews: Multiple reviews from the same person, or reviews promoting other businesses or services.
• Conflict of Interest: Reviews left by a current or former employee, or reviews from family or friends who are personally connected to the business owner.

How to Handle Negative Reviews That Can’t Be Deleted

While you can’t delete all negative reviews, you can manage them effectively:

• Respond Quickly and Professionally: Address the issue raised by the reviewer and offer to resolve it offline. This shows other potential customers that you value feedback and are willing to make improvements.
• Learn From Constructive Criticism: Not all negative reviews are harmful. Some offer valuable insight into areas where your business can improve. A well-handled negative review can turn into a positive customer experience.
• Bury Bad Reviews With Positive Ones: Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews. The more positive reviews you have, the less impact one negative review will have on your overall rating.

Why You Shouldn’t Fake Your Reviews

It might be tempting to create fake positive reviews, but this is not a sustainable strategy. Google has strict guidelines against fake reviews, and businesses caught posting or encouraging fake reviews can face penalties, including suspension of their Google Business Profile. Focus on earning genuine reviews by providing excellent service and encouraging satisfied customers to share their experiences.