Google's New Machine Learning Algorithm: A Weapon Against Fake Reviews

• Google

In the digital age, it is too easy for fake reviews and fraudulent profiles to undermine the credibility of online platforms. This is a challenge that Google has taken head-on with introducing its machine learning algorithm. In 2023, this innovative tool effectively identified and eliminated over 170 million policy-violating reviews and 12 million fake business profiles, safeguarding the integrity of Google's platforms, such as Maps and Search.

"Technology is a wonderful tool, but also, if misused, a dangerous tool. We're fascinated by all aspects of it, whatever makes our human lives easier on the planet, but eventually, there will have to be some merger. The fascination isn't going to die down." - Tom DeLonge.

The Machine Learning Algorithm and Its Impact

Google's machine learning algorithm represents a significant leap forward in the battle against fraudulent online activity. It enabled the company to prevent over 170 million policy-violating reviews and remove 12 million fake business profiles in 2023. This marked a staggering increase of over 45% compared to the previous year.

In addition to this, the algorithm was instrumental in identifying and taking down more fake reviews "than ever before." As part of an update, Google developed and deployed the machine learning algorithm that rapidly identified counterfeit reviews.

How The Algorithm Tackles Fake Reviews

The algorithm operates by examining longer-term signals daily. This includes tracking reviewer behavior. For instance, if a reviewer posts the same review on multiple businesses or if a business suddenly experiences a surge in 1 or 5-star reviews, the algorithm detects this. The tool is designed to catch both one-off cases and broader attack patterns.

Scammers in the Crosshairs

Aside from tackling fake reviews, the algorithm has proven effective in identifying and stopping scammers. It checks for a sudden influx of reviews, which is particularly useful when a network of scammers falsely promise high-paying online tasks such as writing fake reviews or clicking ads across the internet.

Digital Illiteracy and Fake Reviews: The War Between Service Providers and Users

In an era of stupidity and belief in a flat earth, some people may write fake reviews for the wrong product. This is due to digital illiteracy and a lack of desire to see beyond one's nose. An example of this case is the China Post Tracking service. Users who leave reviews cannot determine the cause and effect of their actions. As you can see, fake reviews are a war between the owner of the service and users who mistakenly believe that they are rating the delivery service or the store where they bought the product. And as we see, this war is not yet in favor of the site. How to understand whether Google analyzes such cases and what to do for companies subjected to unfounded criticism?

Google's Key Actions in 2023

Google's machine learning algorithm was instrumental in several key actions the company took in 2023. These include removing or blocking over 170 million policy-violating reviews and over 12 million fake business profiles. The company also improved video moderation algorithms, which helped catch 14 million policy-violating videos in 2023, 7 million more than the previous year. Furthermore, the company protected business owners from over 2 million attempts by bad actors to claim Business Profiles that did not belong to them.

These actions demonstrate the power and potential of machine learning in maintaining the integrity of online platforms and protecting users from fraudulent activity. As we move forward, it will be fascinating to see how Google and other tech giants continue to leverage this technology to tackle the challenges of the digital age.