How to Protect Against False Online Reviews

Whitney Gibson, a partner in the Vorys Cincinnati office and the leader of the firm’s internet defamation practice, authored an article for HOTELS Magazine titled “How to Protect Against False Online Reviews.” In the article, Gibson outlines the importance of having a positive online reputation in the hotel industry.

The article states:

“Business owners and corporate counsel have been advised to have a strategic plan in place to encourage consumers to review their experiences. But it is crucial to consider that under no circumstances should a hotel manipulate reviews. False and misleading reviews can be actionable under the federal Lanham Act or the Federal Trade Commission Act.

After a year-long investigation, The New York attorney general’s office recently busted 19 companies that created or purchased fake reviews. They were fined a combined US$350,000 for these misleading practices.

Accordingly, each hotel launching a review program must consider what works best for them – such as emailing surveys post-check out or setting up review platforms online – but also what is legal.”

To read the entire article, visit the HOTELS Magazine website.  (Subscription may be required).