Owners often notice their review count suddenly drop. Customers also complain that their review "disappeared". Here is why it happens.
Why Google removes reviews
1. Spam filters
Google's systems remove reviews that look suspicious, for example:
- Many reviews arriving in a short burst
- Reviews from the same Wi-Fi or device (like your shop's network)
- Reviews from new accounts with no other activity
2. Policy violations
Fake reviews, incentivised reviews (discounts for reviews), conflicts of interest or offensive content.
3. Profile problems
If your profile is suspended or merged, reviews may be hidden.
4. The reviewer deleted it
Customers can remove or edit their own reviews.
What to do
- Don't ask customers to review from your shop's Wi-Fi. Let them do it at home, using their own data.
- Spread out review requests, a few every day rather than 50 in one day.
- Never offer rewards for reviews.
- Don't buy reviews. They get removed, and can bring a suspension.
Can lost reviews come back?
Sometimes. Reviews filtered by mistake can reappear. You can contact Google support with details, but there is no guarantee.
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Frequently asked questions
Why do reviews disappear right after customers post them?
Often Google's spam filter flags them, for example when many reviews come from the same place or in a short time.
Can I get deleted reviews back?
Sometimes they reappear, but there is no guaranteed way to restore them.
Can I delete a bad Google review on my business?
No. Only Google or the person who wrote it can remove a review. You can report reviews that break Google's policies, such as fake, spam, offensive or conflict-of-interest reviews. For honest negative reviews, a calm and helpful public reply is the best response, because future customers read your reply too.
Is it allowed to ask customers for Google reviews?
Yes. Google allows you to ask customers for reviews. What is not allowed is offering discounts, gifts or other rewards in exchange for reviews, writing reviews yourself, or asking only happy customers through a filtering system. Ask every customer the same simple way.
How many Google reviews does my business need?
There is no fixed number. A good target is to get close to what the top 3 businesses in your area and category have. In some categories that is 100 reviews, in busy food areas it can be several thousand. Steady new reviews every month matter as much as the total.
Why are my customers' reviews not showing up?
Google's spam filters may hide reviews that look suspicious, such as many reviews in a short time, reviews posted from your shop's Wi-Fi, or reviews from brand-new accounts. Ask customers to post from their own phones and data, and spread your requests over days instead of asking everyone at once.
Should I reply to every Google review?
Yes. Replying shows customers you care and keeps your profile active. Thank people for good reviews, mention what they liked, and respond to complaints calmly with an offer to fix the problem offline. Never argue in public, and never share private details such as a patient's treatment.
What is a Google Business Profile?
It is your free business listing on Google Search and Google Maps. It shows your name, location, phone, hours, photos and reviews, and lets customers call, get directions or message you. For most local businesses, it is the biggest source of new customers online.
Why do customers usually choose from the top 3 on Google Maps?
The top 3 appear in the "map pack" at the top of Google Search, with ratings, photos and a call button. Most people don't scroll further. Moving from position 8 to the top 3 can change the number of calls you get dramatically.
How can GBP Ranker help my business?
GBP Ranker works only on Google Business Profiles and Google Maps. We audit your listing, fix problems like verification and suspensions, optimise your profile and build a review system, so more nearby customers find and call you. You can start with a free audit on WhatsApp or call us on +91 93802 30270.