Fake reviews: A threat to consumers and businesses

The Internet is inundated with fake reviews. TripAdvisor was the latest platform to come under fire after reports that some of the top 10 rated hotels in popular tourist destinations had been pushed up the site’s rankings by fake reviews. In response, the site said it had taken down over one million fake reviews in 2018. In a separate case, Facebook removed nine fake operating groups that were found to have been paying members of the public to leave 4- or 5-star reviews on products listed on Amazon. However, their general policy appears to be responsive rather than proactive, only taking action when told about a fake account or group and won’t actively search and track these groups offering fake reviews. Read more…