Business owners beware! Fake reviews are on the rise- particularly fake reviews for restaurateurs.

Houston Restaurant Flooded With Fake Reviews

Bludorn, a Houston-based restaurant, was recently the target of this defamatory trend. After receiving an influx of bad reviews all at once, co-owner and Chef Aaron Bludorn took action by contacting Google to remove the reviews.

However, restaurants across the country have been reporting similar extortion threats, ranging from gift card demands to comped meals.

Arizona Lawmakers Address Fake Review Trend

This illegal trend (otherwise known as defamation) gained immense traction in the state of Arizona. So much so, that business owners demanded state lawmakers to take action against rogue social media influencers and blogger bullies.

Colin Diaz, the president of the Tempe Chamber of Commerce, teamed up with these business owners and amplified their voices. As a result, Governor Doug Ducey passed SB1001 into law. This legislation makes it a class 4 felony to extort a business.

So, what does this mean for Arizonians? It is now officially considered extortion to threaten a fake negative review in exchange for free products or other perks. However, it should be noted that this new law does NOT restrict customers from posting their ACTUAL opinions- good or bad. Rather, it will hold consumers accountable for their posts if found to be falsified.

If this trend continues to increase in popularity, hopefully other states won’t be far behind in signing new legislation into law that protects their business owners.

In Need of a Defamation Lawyer?

Time is of the essence when it comes to defamation, especially when it’s a fake review and your reputation on the line. If you are concerned about negative reviews targeted at you or your business, contact us at RM Warner Law.

Our internet defamation lawyers will evaluate your situation and provide viable options to combat negative reviews. Speak with one of our internet lawyers online today by filling out our contact form or call us toll-free at 1-866-570-8585 to discuss your case.