How to Stop a Negative SEO Attack from Fake Google Reviews

Negative SEO Attack: How We Stopped a Fake Google Review Assault

In the digital age, your online reputation isn’t just important — it’s everything. For businesses that dominate organic and local search results, strong Google reviews are a cornerstone of trust. But what happens when that reputation is suddenly attacked?

We found out firsthand when we became the target of a negative SEO attack — a coordinated flood of fake Google reviews designed to damage our reputation, hurt our rankings, and extort money. With more than 20 years of SEO expertise, we knew exactly how serious this was — and how to fight back. Here’s our story, and the blueprint any business can use to protect themselves.

What Is a Google Review Attack?

A Google review attack occurs when malicious actors post multiple fake reviews in a short timeframe to damage a business’s reputation. The motives vary: some competitors use it as a negative SEO tactic, while others attempt outright Google review extortion by demanding money to stop the attack.

For businesses that depend on search visibility, a sudden drop in star rating can directly impact traffic, trust, and sales.

How Our Attack Began

One morning, during a routine check of our search results, we noticed five new one-star reviews had appeared within just 20 minutes. None of the reviewers had ever been our customers. The reviews were vague, poorly written, and suspiciously similar.

This wasn’t coincidence. It was a targeted attempt to undermine our reputation.

Tracing the Source: Fake Review Networks

When we investigated further, we uncovered a troubling pattern. The same accounts that attacked us had also left negative reviews for businesses across the U.S. — from an electrician in Georgia to a boutique in Dallas.

Even worse, these accounts had also posted glowing five-star reviews elsewhere, signaling they were part of a fake review network.

When we reached out to other affected businesses, the true motive became clear: extortion emails demanding payment to stop the reviews.

Escalation: From Fake Reviews to Extortion

When we refused to engage, the attackers escalated. More fake reviews appeared, some written in foreign languages. We even received harassing WhatsApp messages traced to accounts overseas.

Their message was clear: pay up or the attack continues.
Our message back was even clearer: no payments, no negotiations.

How We Removed the Fake Google Reviews

Instead of panicking, we turned to what we know best — process and documentation. Here’s exactly what worked for us:

1. Take screenshots of every review. Capture names, timestamps, and content.
2. Compile evidence of fraud. In our case, the same accounts targeting multiple businesses.
3. Submit disputes via Google’s review management tool. Attach screenshots and detailed explanations.
4. Follow up consistently. Persistence matters when protecting your brand.

Within days, Google removed the fraudulent reviews. Our rating, which had dropped from 4.9 to 4.4, was fully restored.

Key Lessons for Businesses Facing Fake Reviews

If your business is ever targeted by fake Google reviews or negative SEO attacks, here’s what to remember:

• Don’t panic. Knee-jerk reactions can make things worse.
• Never pay extortionists. It guarantees repeat targeting.
• Document everything. Google responds best when the evidence is undeniable.
• Leverage the dispute process. It works — if you present a clear, professional case.
• Call in expertise. Reputation management is high-stakes SEO. Experience matters.

Final Word: Defend Your Reputation Like Your Business Depends On It

Reputation attacks are on the rise, and even the strongest businesses are vulnerable. But they are not invincible. With the right approach, fake Google reviews can be removed, and extortion attempts can be stopped.

Our story proves it: with the right expertise, documentation, and persistence, you can defeat even the most aggressive attacks.

Because in today’s digital economy, your reputation is your currency — and it must be protected at all costs. That’s where we come in, don’t hesitate to contact Big Orange Planet. We are centrally located on 2401, 15th street in downtown. Phone: 720 272 0770