You’ve flagged the review. Maybe it’s fake. Maybe it’s offensive. Maybe it’s a competitor posing as a customer. Whatever the reason, you’ve clicked “Report review” and now you’re wondering—what happens next?
Here’s exactly what to expect after you flag a Google review and what to do if nothing happens.
Dig Deeper: How to Delete a Google Review
Step 1: Google Confirms the Report
Once you flag a review, Google registers the report in their system. There’s no confirmation email or status update. It all happens behind the scenes.
The review isn’t immediately removed. It’s added to a queue for review by Google’s moderation systems—either automated or human, depending on the case.
Step 2: Automated Review (Usually Within 3–10 Days)
Most flagged reviews are first scanned by Google’s automated filters. These check for:
- Spammy language
- Links or keyword stuffing
- Personal information
- Obvious violations like hate speech or threats
If the review clearly breaks a rule, it may be removed within a few days—sometimes even within hours.
If it’s more subjective (like a harsh tone or questionable story), it may be escalated for manual review.
Step 3: Manual Review (If Needed)
Some cases trigger human moderation. This is more likely if:
- The review is long or detailed
- The flag was submitted through the Reviews Management Tool
- Multiple reports have been submitted
Manual reviews can take longer—up to 14 business days. You won’t get a status update. You’ll just notice the review either disappears or stays.
Step 4: If the Review Stays
If Google decides the review doesn’t violate policy, it won’t be removed. No notification. No explanation. It just stays up.
That doesn’t mean you’re out of options.
Here’s what you can do next:
1. Appeal the Review (If Eligible)
Visit the Google Reviews Management Tool and log into your account. If the flagged review is marked “Appeal eligible,” you can submit a one-time appeal.
Include as much context as possible:
- Why the review is fake or misleading
- Screenshots or receipts
- Patterns of abuse (if the reviewer has done this before)
Appeals typically take 5–21 business days.
2. Escalate to Google Business Support
If the appeal isn’t available or goes nowhere, you can contact Google Business Profile Support. Be clear and detailed:
- Include a case number if you have one
- Explain the situation
- Provide proof the reviewer isn’t a real customer (if possible)
Support requests take longer—expect 2 to 4 weeks for a full response.
3. Monitor for Policy Changes
Google sometimes updates its policies or filters. Reviews that were once ignored may later be removed automatically. This is rare, but it happens.
Keep an eye on:
- Review history in your Business Profile
- New moderation tools from Google
- Duplicate or repeat reviews from the same account
What If Nothing Works?
If Google refuses to take it down, you can still reduce the impact:
- Reply professionally to show your side of the story
- Encourage more positive reviews to bury the bad one
- Suppress it in search results using SEO and content
- Work with removal experts if you’re dealing with defamation, impersonation, or high-stakes issues
We’ve also helped clients remove reviews tied to private information and sensitive content, which fall under separate removal policies and are often resolved faster.
Final Thoughts
Flagging a Google review is just the first step. It might work in a day—or not at all. The process is mostly invisible, and results can vary depending on the type of violation.
If the review truly crosses the line, don’t stop at flagging. Use every tool Google gives you, and if that fails, get help.
At Reputation Galaxy, we handle the heavy lifting. Whether you’re facing fake reviews, unfair attacks, or just don’t know what to do next—we’ve got you covered.