You can see who left a Google review by looking at the name and profile picture shown above it. Click or tap the reviewer’s name to open their public Google Maps profile, which lists their other reviews and photos. That’s all Google shares: businesses and other users can’t see a reviewer’s email address, phone number, or real name if they chose a nickname. If a review is fake or breaks Google’s policies, the business owner can report it, but Google won’t reveal who wrote it.
How to see who left a review
- Open Google Maps or search for the business on Google.
- Open the Reviews tab.
- Look at the name and picture above the review.
- Click or tap the name to open the reviewer’s profile, which may show their other reviews, photos, and Local Guide level.
If you own the business
In your Google Business Profile, you see the same public name and picture as everyone else. From there you can:
- Reply publicly to the review.
- Check your customer records to see if you recognize the name or the details of the visit.
- Report the review if it breaks Google’s rules, such as spam, conflicts of interest, or offensive content.
See how to reply to a Google review for tips on responding.
Why some reviews show “A Google User” or just a first name
- People can choose any display name for their Google profile, including a nickname or initials.
- Older reviews from deleted accounts or older Google systems may show A Google User.
- Some profiles are set to limit what’s public, so you may see only the name and review count.
How to report a fake or abusive review
- Find the review in Google Maps.
- Tap the three dots next to it and choose Report review.
- Pick the reason, like Off topic, Spam, Conflict of interest, or Profanity, and submit.
Business owners can track reports with Google’s Reviews Management Tool. Google removes reviews that break its policies, but not reviews just because they’re negative.
Related: Change the cover photo on Google Business Profile.
Related: What happens to deleted Google reviews.
Frequently asked questions
Can I find out a Google reviewer’s email or phone number?
No. Google doesn’t share personal contact information with businesses or the public.
Can Google reviews be anonymous?
Not completely. Every review is tied to a Google Account, but the name shown can be a nickname.
Can I see all reviews someone has left?
If their profile is public, click their name to see their other reviews. See how to find someone’s Google reviews.
Can a business sue to find out who left a review?
In some legal cases, courts have ordered platforms to share account details, but that’s rare and requires a lawyer. It’s not something Google does on request.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.