What Is Astroturfing?
Astroturfing is the act of faking public support online—usually by writing fake reviews or creating false feedback that looks like it’s coming from real customers. In digital marketing, this often happens on platforms like Google Reviews, Yelp, or other review sites.
It can include posting overly positive reviews for your own business or negative ones to hurt a competitor. While it may seem like a shortcut to build trust or damage rivals, it’s considered a black hat SEO tactic and can lead to penalties from platforms like Google.
Related terms: Black Hat SEO, Online Reviews, Reputation Management, Google Business Profile