Fake Reviews Online Harder to Spot: Report

A new TRUSTMATE.io study reveals that nearly 40 percent of Poles have encountered fake reviews online, while 25 percent struggle to distinguish real from fake. Despite efforts by regulators like UOKiK, deceptive practices remain common, aided by increasingly advanced manipulation techniques.
“Fake reviews mislead consumers and distort fair competition,” says Jerzy Krawczyk, CEO of TRUSTMATE.io. “They’ve become widespread and affect nearly every social group. Verification and using trusted platforms are essential for protection.”
The study found that men (44.2 percent) more often report contact with fake reviews than women (34.3 percent). Younger people and lower-income groups are more likely to encounter them, while those with higher education are more certain about identifying them. City size also matters – “definitely yes” answers were most common in large cities (26.3 percent).
As fake review techniques grow more sophisticated, consumer awareness is rising. Still, many remain unsure, especially women and older respondents, highlighting the need for greater digital literacy and reliable review systems.
(WBJ)