More and more Dutch companies are being confronted with fake reviews on Google, followed by blackmail via WhatsApp. Research by the NOS shows that entrepreneurs from various sectors, from locksmiths and rental companies to roofers, are dealing with this. That's according to NOS.
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The method is always the same: suddenly dozens of negative reviews appear on a company's Google profile, followed by a message from a foreign number. It states that an 'order' has been placed to post bad reviews, unless payment is made. The amounts can be up to hundreds of euros.
Locksmith Mike Kock from South Holland refused to pay and saw fifty additional fake reviews appear within half an hour. Other entrepreneurs also report significant damage. Esra Ersoy from Schiedam saw the score of her moving lift company drop from five to 3.9 stars, which had immediate consequences for the number of customers. Roofer Kevin Güner from Almere also noticed fewer requests. Carpenter Recep Yarar from Tilburg says his assignments almost came to a standstill until the reviews were removed over time.
According to researcher Kay Dean, founder of Fake Review Watch, it involves international networks that mainly target small businesses heavily reliant on their online reputation.
Entrepreneurs can report the reviews, but they indicate that removal often takes weeks or months and that direct contact with Google is hardly possible. In response, Google states that reports are usually assessed within a few days and that "quick action" is taken.
Source: NOS
