Overview
Fake Google reviews, particularly from disgruntled former employees are a significant source of frustration for many of our clients. Recently, we were engaged by business in Adelaide that received a numerous fake reviews.
In addition to posting negative and false reviews about the company, the employee returned damaged company property, and breached contractual obligations outlined in their employment agreement. Our client was understandably upset and required swift resolution to protect its well established reputation and recover damages for the damaged property.
Challenge
However, our client was informed by other law firms that it would be difficult if nigh impossible to find out who was responsible for the fake Google reviews. That is where we came in.
Using advanced Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) tools, Talon Legal was able to establish direct evidence linking the reviews to the former employee, providing a decisive edge in addressing the matter and dispelling any notion of anonymity.
The former employee:
- Posted defamatory reviews on the client’s Google listing under pseudonyms, accusing the client of misconduct and tarnishing their reputation.
- Damaged a company laptop, rendering it unusable.
- Breached their employment agreement by engaging in conduct that harmed the company’s image.
The client required robust legal action to identify the individual behind the pseudonymous reviews, recover costs for property damage, and enforce compliance with post-employment obligations.
Our Approach
Talon Legal adopted a comprehensive, technology-driven strategy to address the issues effectively:
1. OSINT Investigation
- Combined Arms – Using various tools such as Holehe OSINT, EPIOS, and GHunt, Talon Legal cross-referenced the pseudonymous email associated with the Google reviews with other publicly available accounts.
- 1:1 Match – Identified an exact correlation between the former employee’s email address and usernames appearing on Google’s review platform.
- This investigation provided irrefutable evidence of the former employee’s connection to the defamatory reviews, a fact that was crucial in not only obtaining a response from the employee but an apology and tacit admission.
2. Cease and Desist Letter
- Addressed the employee’s misconduct comprehensively, demanding the immediate removal of defamatory reviews and compliance with employment agreement terms.
- Warned of legal action for defamation, criminal defamation and injurious falsehood, emphasising the availability of evidence from OSINT tools to corroborate the employee’s identity.
- Issued a detailed letter demanding the immediate removal of false reviews, citing their defamatory nature and the harm caused to the client’s reputation.
- Highlighted the captured evidence of the reviews and warned that server logs could be obtained from Google to trace the individual’s IP address.
3. Property Damage Recovery
- Highlighted the former employee’s contractual duty to maintain and return company property in the exact same condition and demanded the replacement cost for the damaged laptop.
- Demanded payment within a specified timeframe, warning of potential legal action in the Magistrates Court for non-compliance and potential complaint to South Australia Police for malicious property damage.
4. Enforcement of Employment Terms
- Cited clauses in the employment contract prohibiting the use of social media to harm the company’s image and requiring adherence to company policies.
- Demanded written commitments from the individual to cease all harmful conduct and refrain from further breaches.
Outcome
Talon Legal’s intervention resulted in the following outcomes:
- Defamatory Reviews Removed – The OSINT-driven investigation and subsequent legal response compelled the former employee to delete the Google reviews, preventing further reputational harm.
- Reimbursement for Property Damage – The client recovered the full replacement cost for the damaged laptop without the need for court proceedings.
- Compliance Secured – Written undertakings were provided, ensuring the former employee refrained from any further harmful actions.
Key Takeaways
- Using OSINT tools allowed Talon Legal to identify and link pseudonymous accounts to specific individuals, providing concrete evidence that enhanced the client’s legal position.
- Combining advanced investigative techniques with traditional legal measures ensures effective resolution of complex disputes.
- Prompt action and strategic use of evidence can prevent further reputational harm and avoid costly litigation.
- Clear employment agreements and firm follow-up action are essential for maintaining compliance and protecting company assets.
Is Your Business Being Targeted By Fake Reviews?
Protect your business reputation and assets with a legal partner that leverages cutting-edge tools and strategic expertise. Talon Legal provides innovative solutions tailored to protect your interests and resolve disputes efficiently. Contact us today for a free 30 minute consultation to learn how we can assist.
