Google Maps just got a major upgrade—and it’s aimed squarely at fake reviews and shady Business Profile edits.
Using its Gemini AI model, Google can now detect unusual activity faster and more accurately. The focus? Catching fake five-star reviews and risky profile changes before they mislead users.
Gemini Targets Suspicious Profile Changes
One key update: Gemini helps flag suspicious changes to Business Profiles.
It can tell the difference between a normal update—like “Zoe’s Coffee” becoming “Zoe’s Café”—and a drastic switch, like changing from a café to a plumbing business.
According to Google, this new AI model blocked thousands of high-risk edits this year alone. That means more accurate listings and less manipulation in local search.
AI Now Hunts Fake Five-Star Reviews
Google also rolled out new review protection. Gemini can analyze the review behavior over time to spot unusual spikes. Even after a review is posted, the system keeps watching.
Google has already launched alerts in the U.S., U.K., and India. Google will notify users if they remove fake reviews from a listing.
A global rollout is expected to start next month.
The Numbers Behind the Cleanup
In 2024, Google’s AI blocked or removed:
- 240 million policy-breaking reviews
- 70 million risky Business Profile edits
- 12 million fake profiles
- Posting rights for 900,000+ repeat violators
The goal: Keep Maps and local search helpful, accurate, and trustworthy.
Why This Matters for Marketers
For us at Cybertegic, a trusted digital marketing agency in Los Angeles, this means one thing—focus on honest, long-term local SEO strategies.
Google is getting smarter. Shortcuts and black-hat tactics are easier to detect and penalize.
Best Practices Moving Forward
- Monitor Business Profile changes closely
- Stick to Google’s review guidelines
- Ask real customers for feedback
- Flag suspicious competitor activity
- Keep profiles complete and verified
Final Thought
Google Maps is stepping up. Local SEO isn’t just about rankings—it’s about trust. And trust starts with sticking by the rules.
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