Turkish trade ministry decides to suspend Google Reviews
A smartphone screen displaying Google Reviews with a five-star rating. (Adobe Stock Photo)
The Turkish trade ministry has issued a detained penalty for Google’s “Reviews” service due to concerns over the potential harm of unverified user reviews on locations such as tourism facilities.
According to the press release from the ministry, the Advertising Board, which convened on Feb. 14, 2025, reviewed 354 cases and found that 183 violated regulations. The board imposed administrative fines totaling $30.2 million ($825,354) and issued access restrictions on 37 cases to prevent consumer grievances.
Among the rulings, the board decided to block unverified user reviews, citing the spread of false and misleading comments. It determined that reviews on businesses and establishments should only be submitted by verified users to ensure reliability.
Google Reviews to be suspended in Türkiye
During its investigation into Google, the ministry found that a company had posted reviews under the “Facility Reviews” section without verification, instead sourcing them from Google’s service.
As a result, the ministry ruled that publishing such reviews constitutes an unfair commercial practice and decided to suspend Google Reviews service in Türkiye.
The decision is seen as an effort to protect Turkish businesses and consumers from manipulation and smear campaigns.
