Whether we’re checking out a hotel, rental home or buying something on Amazon, online reviews play a huge part in our decision.
In fact, 95% of customers read online reviews before making a purchase. But some of them might not be real at all.
According to WiserNotify, 30% of all online reviews are fake.
Whether you’re in the market for a mattress, some new clothes or checking out a new restaurant, reviews play a role.
Forty-nine percent of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations. But behind the bright stars, a sneaky shadow could be crushing your expectations.
“They can lead you to a false belief that this is a good product,” said John Degen, president of Cutting Edge Network Technologies.
Around 80% of consumers reported encountering a fake review. Amazon, Facebook, and Google are listed in the top three for seeing fakes.
So how can you spot one?
Degen said to keep an eye out for overly positive reviews.
“Then also see whether there are lots of those that are kind of weird. You know what I mean? You wouldn’t take that much time to write it,” explained Degen.
On the other hand, if you see a one-star review with little to no information, that’s another sign.
When shopping on Amazon, look for verified purchase badges to confirm that the reviewer really bought and used the product. Also, check the flow of a review. Degan said it’s another sign.
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“I see that a lot, where even they’ll misinterpret gender on the different types, when you’re speaking and it doesn’t flow right, with the actual review,” explained Degen.
And if you’re still unsure, tools like Fakespot can help you identify which ones are fake and real.
Degen also says the best way to combat this is to leave genuine reviews.
If you have a great experience with a product or service, leave a good review, and if you’ve got a negative or problem go ahead and post that too and give the vendor a chance to make it right for you.