Google pledges to crack down on fake reviews after UK watchdog investigation

Core Points - Google has committed to implementing stricter measures to combat fake online reviews following an investigation by the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) [2][4] - The CMA stated that Google will delete reviews from users who repeatedly post fake or misleading reviews and will ban these users from posting new reviews [2][3] - Businesses attempting to artificially inflate their ratings will face penalties, including warning alerts on their profiles and deletion of all reviews from the past six months if they continue such practices [3][4] Group 1 - Google will take rigorous steps to detect and remove sham reviews, allowing for quick identification and investigation of fraudulent activities [2] - Consumers will have a new mechanism to report suspicious reviews, including those incentivized by payments or rewards [3] - The CMA's CEO emphasized that these changes will enhance consumer confidence in online reviews and promote fair competition among businesses [4] Group 2 - Google has stated that it already blocks millions of fake reviews annually as part of its ongoing efforts to combat fraudulent content [4] - A separate investigation into Amazon regarding fake reviews is also ongoing, highlighting a broader concern about consumer protection in the online shopping space [4] - The issue of fake reviews has prompted various online platforms and authorities, including the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, to take action against fraudulent practices [5][6]