How to remove bad reviews from Google My Business is a question many small business owners ask when their online reputation takes a hit. In today’s digital age, a single negative review can influence customer trust, reduce clicks, and ultimately affect revenue. In fact, over 90% of consumers read reviews before visiting a business—and most won’t give a low-rated business a second chance.
At Wix Infotech, we’ve helped dozens of small businesses across the US reclaim their online credibility using clean, legal, and effective strategies. Let’s dive into the exact steps and solutions.
Can You Really Remove Bad Google Reviews?
Yes, but with limitations.
Google My Business allows businesses to report and request removal of reviews that violate its policies. These include:
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Spam or fake content
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Hate speech or offensive language
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Off-topic reviews
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Conflict of interest (e.g., written by competitors or ex-employees)
✅ Read Google’s Review Policy for full guidelines.
However, if the review doesn’t violate any rules—no matter how unfair it feels—you can’t simply delete it. But don’t worry. There are strategic ways to handle even legitimate negative reviews.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Remove Bad Reviews from Google My Business
Step 1: Identify Violations
Start by analyzing the review. Look for keywords or patterns that might suggest it’s:
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Spam
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Fake
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Inflammatory
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Promotional
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Irrelevant to your services
If it violates policies, proceed to flag it.
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Step 2: Flag the Review in GMB
Here’s how:
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Go to your Google Business Profile Manager
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Locate the Review tab
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Click the three-dot menu on the offending review
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Select “Report review”
Google will typically review the report within 3–7 days.
Step 3: Use Google Business Support
If nothing happens, escalate your issue:
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Visit the Google Business Profile Help Center
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Use the chat or email form
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Provide screenshots and clear evidence
The more professional and detailed you are, the better your chances of getting a review removed.
Step 4: Respond Professionally
While you wait, respond publicly to the review. Even if it’s fake, it’s important to appear composed and empathetic.
Example response:
“We take all feedback seriously and do not have a record of your visit. Please reach out to us at [email] so we can address your concern.”
This shows potential customers you care and may even prompt the reviewer to delete it themselves.
Step 5: Bury the Bad with the Good
Sometimes, you can’t remove the bad—but you can dilute its effect. Here’s how:
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Ask loyal customers for reviews
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Use email campaigns with a “Leave us a review” CTA
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Offer incentives (but never pay for reviews—it’s against Google’s policy)
✅ Learn how we help businesses gather 5-star reviews here: WixInfotech.com/services
Bonus: What Not to Do
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Don’t write fake reviews to drown the bad ones
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Don’t threaten or argue with reviewers
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Don’t pay someone to remove reviews (scams are common)
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Don’t ignore the issue—it won’t go away
Your online presence is your first impression. Make it count.
When to Hire a Reputation Management Expert
If you’re:
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Repeatedly attacked by fake reviews
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Struggling with low star ratings
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Losing business due to one viral complaint
…then it might be time to bring in the pros.
At Wix Infotech, we offer comprehensive local SEO and reputation repair services designed to:
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Audit and flag policy-violating reviews
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Create a strategy to regain trust
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Generate authentic, positive feedback
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Optimize your GMB profile for better ranking
📞 Contact us today for a free consultation.
Conclusion: Your Reputation Deserves Protection
Bad reviews don’t have to define your business. Knowing how to remove bad reviews from Google My Business—or handle them wisely—can be the key to protecting your online reputation and growing your revenue.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t go it alone. Let Wix Infotech help you turn bad press into business growth with smart SEO, review strategies, and GMB optimization.
🔧 Ready to fix your online image?
Visit wixinfotech.com or contact our team now.