How to Spot Fake Online Reviews

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Shopping Skills

With fake reviews on the rise, it's crucial to know how to identify genuine feedback when shopping online. Use these tips to distinguish real reviews from impostors:


1. Check Time Stamps

  • What to Look For:
  • A cluster of reviews posted on the same day or within a short time frame.
  • Why It’s Suspicious:
  • Fake reviews are often posted in batches to artificially inflate ratings.

2. Look for Identical Phrasing

  • Red Flags:
  • Multiple reviews with similar language or phrases (e.g., "This product changed my life!").
  • What It Means:
  • It could indicate the reviews are scripted or generated by bots.

3. Verify the Verified Purchase Badge

  • On Amazon:
  • Look for the Verified Purchase badge to ensure the reviewer bought the product through Amazon.
  • Pro Tip:
  • Use filters to show only reviews with this badge for more trustworthy feedback.

4. Investigate Reviewer History

  • Steps:
  • Click on the reviewer's profile.
  • Check for patterns like consistently giving five stars or overly generic language.
  • What It Reveals:
  • Reviewers with repetitive patterns may be fake or paid contributors.

5. Use Fakespot for Deeper Analysis

  • How It Works:
  • Copy the product’s URL and paste it into Fakespot’s analyzer.
  • What It Does:
  • Evaluates review quality and identifies the percentage of likely fake reviews.
  • Supported Sites:
  • Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, and more.

Quick Tips for Safer Shopping

  • Look Beyond the Stars: Focus on reviews with detailed experiences rather than generic praise.
  • Compare Reviews Across Platforms: Check other retailer websites for consistent feedback.
  • Be Skeptical of Extreme Positivity: A product without a single critical review could indicate review manipulation.

Pro Tip: Stay informed and shop smarter by focusing on detailed, authentic reviews. Fake reviews may be common, but with these tips, you can shop with confidence!


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