What’s fine
- Asking every customer for an honest review, in person, on a sign, or by email.
- Making it easy with a direct link or QR code.
- Replying to reviews, positive and negative.
- Reporting reviews that break Google’s policies (for example spam or off-topic content).
What’s not allowed
- Rewards for reviews. No discounts, freebies, prize draws or loyalty points in exchange for a review. Google’s policies prohibit incentives, even for honest reviews.
- Review gating. Only asking happy customers, or sending unhappy ones somewhere else first. Google says not to selectively ask for positive reviews or discourage negative ones.
- Fake reviews. Reviews from staff, friends posing as customers, or paid review services.
- Reviewing yourself or your competitors.
Google’s policies change from time to time. For the current wording, search for Google’s “Prohibited and restricted content” policy for Maps user-generated content.
The New Zealand angle
Fake or misleading reviews can also create problems under the Fair Trading Act, which prohibits misleading conduct in trade. The Commerce Commission has published guidance for businesses on online reviews. The simple rule: only real customers, sharing their honest experience, with no strings attached.
How a QR sign fits in
A sign that invites everyone to share an honest review is exactly what Google’s rules expect. It asks everyone equally, offers nothing in return, and opens your real review form. That’s how every Review QR sign is worded: “Scan to leave us a Google review.”