How to Respond to Fake or Unfair 1-Star Reviews in Scotland (Without Losing Your Cool)

A single Fake or Unfair 1-Star Review can feel like a punch to the gut. Especially when you’ve worked hard to build a good reputation. And here’s the kicker—82% of Scottish consumers admit they’d think twice about using a business with under a 4-star average. So, what do you do when a fake or wildly unfair review threatens to drag yours down?

Let’s talk real solutions—no jargon, no fluff. Just straight-up advice from someone who’s helped Glasgow businesses fight back.

Step 1: Don’t Panic. (But Do Act Fast.)

I’ve seen it happen too many times. A business owner spots a nasty fake or unfair 1-star reviews and fires off an angry reply. Big mistake. Once it’s online, it’s there forever—even if the review itself gets removed.

What to do instead:

• Take 10 minutes. Walk away, make a cuppa, then come back with a clear head.
• Screen-grab the review. If it’s fake or abusive, you’ll need evidence.
• Check the reviewer’s history. Fake accounts often leave identical reviews for multiple businesses.

Step 2: Craft Your Response (The Scottish Way)

Scots value honesty and a bit of humour. But professionalism matters too. Here’s a foolproof template:

1. Acknowledge (Even If It’s BS)
   “Sorry to hear you had a poor experience, [Name].”
   (Note: No “if” – it sounds defensive.)
2. Stay Neutral
   “That’s not the standard we aim for. Could you DM us with details so we can look into it?”
   (This puts the ball in their court. Most fake reviewers vanish here.)
3. Subtly Flag It
   “We’ve checked our records and can’t find a booking under your name. Give us a shout so we can sort this!”
   (A polite way to call out fakes without accusing.)

Step 3: Get It Removed (Legally)

Under UK law, reviews must be honest opinions. If it’s fake, you can report it. Here’s how:

• Google Reviews: Use the 3-dot menu → “Report review.” Include your screen-grab and a note like: “This reviewer isn’t a customer. Here’s proof.”
• Facebook/TripAdvisor: Flag it as “defamatory.” Use phrases like “false statement of fact” – that’s legal gold.

Step 4: Bury It With Positivity

Even if the fake or unfair 1-star reviews sticks, you can minimise the damage.

• Encourage happy customers to leave reviews. A single new 5-star review pushes the bad one down the page.
• Reply to ALL good reviews too. It shows you’re engaged (and makes the odd 1-star look like a blip).

Final Thought: It Happens to the Best

Even the fanciest restaurants in Glasgow get the occasional nonsense review. The difference? They don’t let it define them.

Your move:

1. Stay calm.
2. Reply professionally.
3. Rally your real customers.

And remember—most people can spot a fake review a mile off. Focus on the 99% who love what you do to ensure reviews-driven growth for your business.

Need Help? If you’re staring at a review that just isn’t fair, drop me a message. No charge for a quick chat.