How to report and respond to fake Google reviews
By Ian Murphy · Last reviewed October 26, 2026
Only Google can remove a review, and only when it breaks Google's policies. You can't force a removal, but you can report it properly and respond well.
Report the review
In your Business Profile, flag the review and pick the policy it breaks, such as off-topic, conflict of interest or fake engagement.
Check the status
Use Google's Reviews Management Tool to see the status of your report and, if available, ask for a further review of the decision.
Respond publicly
A short, calm reply helps future customers: say you can't find a record of the visit and invite them to contact you directly.
Extortion
If someone demands money to stop or remove reviews, don't pay. Screenshot everything and use Google's extortion report form.
Official sources
Want the templates?
The Google Profile Rescue Kit ($29) has the checklists, letters and tracker that go with this guide.
General information only, not legal advice. Policies change; check the official source. No one can guarantee the platform's decision.