Short answer. Yelp places consumer alerts when it sees suspicious review activity, such as reviews from the same location, compensated reviews or organized campaigns. Alerts are temporary. Stop the practice that caused it, avoid asking customers for Yelp reviews and contact Yelp support if you believe the alert is mistaken.
Need help applying this to your notice? Request a free written assessment: Yelp case assessment. We reply within one business day. Paid preparation is quoted separately; the platform decides the outcome.
What triggers alerts
- Reviews posted from the business's own network or devices
- Discounts or gifts offered in exchange for reviews
- Review drives or third-party review services
- Sudden bursts of reviews from new accounts
Yelp's position on asking for reviews
Yelp discourages businesses from asking for reviews at all. Focus requests on platforms that allow them and let Yelp reviews come naturally.
If the alert is wrong
Contact Yelp through the business account with facts: for example, that a group of customers attended an event together.
FAQs
How long does a Yelp alert stay?
Alerts are temporary but can be extended if activity continues.
Can paying for Yelp ads remove an alert?
No. Advertising does not affect review decisions.
Can I respond to the alert publicly?
Respond professionally to reviews, but do not argue the alert on the page.
Official sources