Help

Someone who was never my customer left a review

It happens: an ex-employee, a competitor, someone who confused you with another business, or a stranger.

Last updated: Oct 2026

Google changes its screens from time to time. These steps match what we saw in Oct 2026.

What to do

Check your records first. Is there any trace of this person: a booking, an invoice, a call?
Report the review (see "How to remove fake Google reviews" for where to click). Choose "Conflict of interest" for a competitor or ex-employee, or "Off topic" if they describe another business.
Reply once, calmly, without accusing anyone: "We have no record of working with you. If we're mistaken, please call us at [phone]. We'd like to understand what happened."
Save a screenshot of the review with its date, in case you need to appeal.

If they confused you with a business with a similar name, say so kindly in the reply. Future readers will understand.

Should I say it's fake in my reply?

Say what you know: that you have no record of them. Readers draw their own conclusion.

What if it's a competitor?

Report it as a conflict of interest. Don't retaliate with reviews of your own.

Do I need a lawyer?

Only for serious false claims that harm you. Most cases are handled by reporting and a calm reply.

No passwords · No call needed · Read by a person