February 14, 2024 In a significant crackdown on fraudulent online activity, Google has removed over 170 million fake reviews from Maps and Search in 2023, thanks to the deployment of a new machine learning algorithm. This algorithm, designed to identify and eliminate false reviews more efficiently, represents a major step forward in Google’s efforts to maintain the integrity and trustworthiness of its services.
The new machine learning algorithm allows Google to detect fake reviews by analyzing patterns of suspicious activity, such as repetitive reviews across multiple businesses or unusual spikes in ratings, at a pace previously unattainable.
The algorithm also plays a crucial role in thwarting scammers who promise businesses improved reviews and online presence for a fee, by identifying and refining patterns related to scam operations, helping to safeguard businesses from fraudulent practices.
3The introduction of this algorithm has led to the removal of 170 million reviews that violated Google’s policies in 2023 alone, marking a 45% increase from the previous year. Additionally, Google successfully identified and deleted 12 million fake business profiles and doubled its efforts in removing policy-violating videos, with 14 million taken down in the same year.
Google is also taking legal action against scammers, as demonstrated by a lawsuit filed against an individual responsible for creating over 350 fraudulent business profiles and attempting to sell consumer interactions derived from these fake profiles.
Sources include: TechSpot
