BEWARE: Google Review Blackmail and Extortion

Updated: Nov 3

Understanding Google Review Blackmail: A Cautionary Tale for SailBreeze

Robin Eberbach - blackmail and extortion

SailBreeze's Experience with Review Extortion

Google review blackmail involves individuals or groups extorting businesses by posting fake negative reviews on their Google Business Profile. They often demand payment to have these reviews removed. This is a serious issue that Google is actively working to address.

At SailBreeze, we are not immune to this type of scam. Recently, we faced a troubling situation with an individual named Robin Eberbach. He has posted several negative reviews on both our Yacht Charter and Sailing School Google Business Pages. Using different IDs, he has gone to great lengths to tarnish our reputation. His demand? A payment of 3,000 Baht to delete all the reviews. He claims he ordered this on 'Temu', a platform we do not advertise or have an account with. This is a clear case of blackmail and extortion.

The Extent of the Scam

Most individuals might post just one negative review, but Robin has taken it further. He has posted multiple reviews under various IDs, showcasing his intent to extort money from businesses like ours. This behavior is alarming and highlights the lengths some will go to for financial gain.

We have reported this situation to Google, seeking their necessary action.

Please see images below.

The Google Reviews on SailBreeze Yacht Charter

The Google Reviews on SailBreeze Sailing School

As advised, we have not paid. He later reduced his asking price to 2,000 Baht to delete his reviews from all platforms. We have not succumbed to this bullying.

Additionally, we noticed that he has also posted a review on TripAdvisor.

Legal Implications of Negative Reviews in Thailand

In Thailand, leaving a bad review is not inherently illegal. However, it can become a legal issue if the reviewer intends to harm the business, as is the case here. Penalties can lead to imprisonment (not exceeding one year) or fines (not exceeding 20,000 Baht), or both. Extortion carries its own legal consequences in Thailand.

Please see more images below.

Understanding the Mechanics of Review Extortion

Here's how this scam typically works:

Fake Reviews:

Businesses are targeted with a barrage of fake negative reviews, often with no basis in reality.

Demands for Payment:

These reviews are frequently accompanied by demands for payment to have the negative reviews removed.

Exploitation of Google's System:

Perpetrators exploit the system by creating a sense of urgency and fear, hoping the business will pay to avoid reputational damage.

How to Respond to Review Extortion

Report to Google:
Businesses can report the reviews as inappropriate and potentially violating Google's content policies.
Gather Evidence:
Collect screenshots of the reviews, communication with the blackmailers, and any other relevant information.
Contact Authorities:
Report the incident to local law enforcement or cybersecurity agencies.
Seek Legal Counsel:
Consult with legal professionals to explore options like cease and desist letters.
Improve Security:
Implement measures to protect your online presence, such as securing your Google Business Profile and monitoring for suspicious activity.
Educate Employees:
Train staff to identify and report potential extortion attempts.
Publicly Address the Issue:
If the blackmail is public, consider issuing a statement to address the situation and reassure customers.

Important Considerations When Facing Blackmail

Don't Pay:
Paying the blackmailers only encourages further extortion attempts and does not guarantee the removal of the negative reviews.
Be Patient:
Review removal processes can take time, so be patient and persistent in your reporting.
Focus on Prevention:
Implement measures to protect your business from future blackmail attempts.

At SailBreeze, we are committed to maintaining our integrity and providing exceptional service. We will not let extortion tactics undermine our dedication to our clients. Together, we can navigate these challenges and continue to offer unforgettable sailing experiences in the beautiful waters of Thailand.