Google’s New Algorithm Enables Removal of 45% More Fake Reviews in 2023
In the ever-evolving battle against spam and fake information, Google has introduced a new algorithm that is capable of detecting and removing fake reviews from local listings in Google Search and Google Maps. The search giant claims that this new algorithm has been incredibly effective, leading to a 45% increase in the removal of fake reviews compared to the previous year.
Google receives a staggering number of contributions to its Google Maps and local listings, including reviews, photos, and updates to listings. In fact, the company receives around 20 million contributions per day on Maps and Search. With such a high volume of user-generated content, it becomes increasingly difficult to filter out fake reviews and ensure the authenticity of the information provided.
To address this challenge, Google launched a new algorithm last year that utilizes machine learning to detect questionable review patterns more efficiently. This algorithm analyzes longer-term signals on a daily basis, such as repeated identical reviews across multiple businesses or sudden spikes in 1 or 5-star ratings. By continuously analyzing these patterns, Google’s algorithm can identify both isolated instances of fake reviews and broader attack patterns.
One example of such an attack pattern occurred when a network of scammers claimed to connect people with high-paying online tasks in exchange for a fee. These scammers would write fake reviews or click on ads across the internet. However, Google’s algorithm quickly detected this surge in suspicious reviews by analyzing patterns, including whether an account had previously posted reviews. Human investigators then analyzed reports from affected merchants, leading to the removal of 5 million fake review attempts related to this scam alone within a few weeks.
In addition to this scam, Google’s algorithm has been successful in blocking or removing over 170 million policy-violating reviews in 2023, marking a significant increase from the previous year. Furthermore, more than 12 million fake business profiles were removed or blocked, and 14 million policy-violating videos were taken down. Google also prevented over 2 million attempts to claim Business Profiles that did not belong to the claimants.
While these numbers indicate Google’s commitment to fighting fake reviews and spam, the battle is far from over. As the search giant continues to develop new techniques to prevent and reduce spam, spammers find alternative ways to bypass these efforts. It is a constant game of cat and mouse, with Google striving to stay one step ahead of the spammers.
As marketers, we all understand the frustration that comes with spam and fake information in search results. None of us want to be targets of spam attacks, and we certainly don’t want fake reviews tarnishing our businesses or our clients’ listings. Google’s ongoing efforts to combat this issue are commendable, but it remains crucial for individuals and businesses to remain vigilant in reporting any suspicious activity.
In a world where online reviews play a significant role in consumer decision-making, it is essential to ensure the accuracy and reliability of these reviews. Google’s new algorithm represents a step in the right direction, but it is clear that the fight against fake reviews is an ongoing battle that requires collaboration between technology and human intervention.
Overall, Google’s efforts to remove fake reviews and combat spam are commendable. By continuously refining its algorithms and analyzing patterns, the company has made significant progress in ensuring the authenticity of user-generated content. However, as long as there are individuals trying to exploit the system, it will be essential for Google to stay vigilant and continue adapting its strategies to protect users from spam and fake information.
