If you typically get 3, 4, or 5 stars, consider yourself fortunate to have such a good reputation. Ratings in that range are viewed as positive and bring several benefits, such as better search visibility and clickthrough rates, stronger brand trust and recognition, and reduced opportunity costs due to higher visibility.
I understand your frustration. However, your attorney gave you good advice.
There is a phrase for what you want to do. It is called suppressing consumer reviews. There are adverse consequences if you get caught. Some companies go so far as to manipulate consumer reviews. That is illegal.
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has issued policy guidance on contractual “gag clauses” and fraud associated with fake reviews.[i] The guidance describes certain business practices related to customer reviews that are generally unlawful under the Consumer Financial Protection Act (CFPA).
According to the CFPB, reviews of products and services help to promote fair, transparent, and competitive markets. However, when a company frustrates the ability of consumers to post honest reviews of the products and services used, those firms may be engaged in conduct prohibited by the CFPA.
The CFPB’s guidelines describe certain business practices related to customer reviews that are generally unlawful under the CFPA, including ...
