Legal Options for Fake Online Reviews

In today’s digital world, online reviews can make or break a business. But what happens when someone leaves a fake, malicious, or defamatory review about your company? Whether it’s a disgruntled competitor, a former employee, or an anonymous internet user, false reviews can damage your reputation, cost you customers, and threaten your livelihood.

What Qualifies as a Fake or Defamatory Review?

Not every bad review is illegal—but false statements of fact that harm your business may cross the line into defamation.

You may have a valid claim if:

• The reviewer was never a customer or client

• The content contains provably false claims (e.g., "They stole my credit card")

• The review was posted under a fake name or profile

• The review was part of a coordinated smear campaign by a competitor

Opinion vs. Defamation: Reviews stating a personal opinion (“I didn’t like the service”) are generally protected under the First Amendment. However, false statements presented as fact may not be.

Legal Grounds for Action

Florida law, like most states, recognizes defamation as a cause of action. For businesses, this can fall under commercial defamation or business disparagement. You may also have claims under:

• Tortious interference with business relationships

• Unfair competition

• Cyberstalking or harassment laws (in extreme cases)

• The Lanham Act (if a competitor posts fake reviews to gain market share)

Legal Steps You Can Take

1. Preserve the Evidence

Take screenshots of the review, the profile, timestamps, and any communication. These details may be essential for proving the content is false and harmful.

2. Report the Review

Most platforms like Google, Yelp, and Facebook have tools to report suspicious or fake reviews. While success varies, documenting this step shows good faith efforts to resolve the issue outside of court.

3. Send a Cease and Desist Letter

A formal legal demand from an attorney may convince the reviewer to remove the content—especially if they are impersonating someone, spreading lies, or engaging in harassment.

4. Request a Subpoena to Identify Anonymous Posters

If the fake review is anonymous, we still may be able to subpoena the platform for identifying information (IP address, email, etc.). Courts often weigh the harm caused by the post against First Amendment protections.

5. File a Defamation Lawsuit

If the damage is serious and the content is false, litigation may be warranted. A successful defamation lawsuit can result in:

• Court-ordered removal of the post

• Monetary damages for lost business or emotional distress

• A public retraction or apology

How Attorney Alex Tanios Can Help

At The Tanios Law Firm, P.A., we take online defamation seriously. Whether you’re a small business owner or professional with a targeted reputation, Attorney Alex Tanios can help you:

• Review the content for potential legal claims

• Communicate with platforms or reviewers on your behalf

• Prepare cease and desist letters

• File suit if necessary to recover damages or obtain injunctive relief

We pursue resolution efficiently—seeking removal or retraction before litigation when possible.

Protect Your Reputation Today

Your reputation is one of your most valuable assets. Don’t let false online reviews go unchallenged. If you’re facing online defamation or smear campaigns, at The Tanios Law Firm, P.A. Attorney Alex Tanios is ready to take action. Contact us at 407-276-8229.