In a lawsuit filed at the federal court in San Jose, California, Alphabet’s Google has taken legal action against Ethan QiQi Hu and his companies, accusing them of creating fake business listings on Google platforms and selling them to real businesses. The intention behind this scheme was to deceive unsuspecting customers and attract them to these fraudulent businesses.
The issue of fake reviews has persistently plagued internet commerce platforms. In response, Google, through this lawsuit, aims to put an end to such malicious schemes. However, Ethan QiQi Hu has not yet responded to the allegations made against him.
According to Google’s lawsuit, Hu has devised a sophisticated strategy to create fraudulent businesses that prominently feature on Google’s search engine and Google Maps. To authenticate these listings, Hu employs various props during video calls with Google’s agents. For instance, a tool bench is used to verify fake garage repair, tree cutting, and plumbing businesses, while essential oils are utilized to validate the existence of fake aromatherapy and reiki therapy establishments.
In order to make these sham businesses appear genuine, Hu purchases thousands of fabricated positive reviews. The profiles of these businesses are then sold as “leads” to real businesses operating in the same industries. Consequently, these legitimate businesses receive inquiries from potential customers who unknowingly reach out to the fraudulent entities.
Google reveals that Hu has created more than 350 false profiles, which have been bolstered by a staggering 14,000 illegitimate reviews. In response, the lawsuit levies accusations against Hu, including false advertising, the engagement in unlawful business practices, and the violation of Google’s terms of service. Google is seeking both monetary damages and a court order to restrain Hu from continuing his alleged fraudulent activities.
The case, dubbed Google LLC vs Hu, is currently being heard at the US District Court of the Northern District of California with the reference number 5:23-cv-02964.
© Thomson Reuters 2023
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