Online reviews have become one of the most powerful tools in shaping consumer decisions. Whether purchasing a new gadget, choosing a restaurant, or booking a hotel, people rely on reviews to guide their choices. A five-star rating can boost a business overnight, while a flood of negative feedback can drive customers away. In an era where digital opinions hold immense influence, many consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations. But how trustworthy are these reviews? 

The rise of online platforms such as Amazon, Yelp, Google Reviews, and TripAdvisor has created a marketplace where reviews serve as a form of social proof. Businesses thrive on positive feedback, and consumers seek reassurance from the experiences of others. However, beneath the surface lies a complex and often deceptive world where fake reviews, manipulation tactics, and hidden agendas distort reality. Many businesses engage in review boosting—either by purchasing fake positive feedback or discrediting competitors with negative comments. Similarly, some companies pressure customers to leave glowing reviews in exchange for discounts, gifts, or other incentives. 

Fake reviews have become so prevalent that major platforms have struggled to combat the problem. Artificial intelligence and machine learning tools are employed to detect suspicious patterns, yet fraudulent reviews continue to slip through the cracks. Review farms, where individuals are paid to write misleading feedback, operate in the shadows, making it difficult for consumers to distinguish between genuine experiences and fabricated opinions.