Why does Trust Score create business profile pages automatically?

Trust Score automatically creates business profile pages to facilitate transparency and provide consumers with valuable information. When a user searches for a business’s web address on our platform, we automatically generate a profile page for that business. This is done to ensure that consumers have access to relevant details about the business, including reviews and credibility assessments.

By creating these profiles, Trust Score allows consumers to share their experiences with a business, which in turn helps other shoppers make more informed decisions. This approach ensures that businesses that are actively being reviewed are represented, allowing for a clear and authentic reflection of their reputation based on consumer feedback.

The profile pages are not manually curated by us; rather, they are generated by the platform as part of the user-driven review process. This allows businesses to be reviewed based on real customer experiences. We believe that consumers should have the power to determine which businesses are discussed on Trust Score, and our role is to host this content in a transparent and reliable manner.

For further details on how profiles are handled, you can refer to our Terms of Service and Content Creation and Retention Policy.

Can a business request to have its profile page removed from Trust Score?

No, businesses cannot request the removal of their profile page from Trust Score once it has been created.

Trust Score operates on the principle that consumers decide which businesses are reviewed. A business profile page is automatically generated when a consumer searches for the business’s web address on our platform. This profile serves as a space for users to share their experiences, both positive and negative. The content is driven by consumer feedback, and our role is to host and display this content transparently.

However, if a business believes that the profile contains incorrect or misleading information, they can reach out to us with a request for review. Our team will investigate and, if necessary, correct any factual errors or discrepancies that may have occurred in the data or the content presented on the profile.

It’s important to note that reviews and evaluations are retained based on our Retention and Non-Deletion Policy and are not deleted upon request. This ensures the integrity and transparency of the feedback shared by consumers.

For further details, please refer to our Retention and Non-Deletion Policy and Terms of Service.

How does Trust Score determine the credibility of a reviewed website?

Trust Score evaluates the credibility of a website based on a comprehensive set of criteria that ensures a fair and detailed assessment. Our goal is to provide consumers with reliable and transparent information about the businesses they are considering. The following factors are taken into account when determining the credibility of a reviewed website:

1. Professional Email Address:
   We check if the website uses a professional email address (e.g., [email protected]) rather than generic ones (e.g., gmail.com or yahoo.com), as this is often a sign of a legitimate and serious business.
2. SSL Security Certificate:
   A secure connection (HTTPS) is crucial for any legitimate website. We verify that the site has an SSL certificate, ensuring that sensitive information, such as payment details, is protected.
3. Authentic Logo and Branding:
   We assess whether the website has a professional, authentic logo and branding that reflects the business’s seriousness and consistency.
4. Social Media Presence:
   Trust Score checks if the website is actively present on social media platforms. A legitimate business is usually represented across multiple social channels with verified and consistent profiles.
5. Reviews on Other Platforms:
   We examine reviews and feedback on other reputable review sites and forums to see how the business is perceived across the web. A consistent reputation across multiple platforms strengthens credibility.
6. Popular Categories and Content:
   We review the site’s main offerings and content to determine whether it aligns with well-known industry standards and categories. This helps establish if the business is credible within its niche.
7. Website’s Domain Age:
   A longer domain age is often an indicator of stability. We look into the domain’s age to determine whether it has been established for a reasonable period or if it is a newly registered domain that could be a red flag.
8. Customer Care Contact Information:
   We check for clear and easily accessible customer support channels, including phone numbers and email addresses. A legitimate business typically provides multiple means for customers to reach them.
9. Official Business Address:
   We verify whether the website provides an official business address. A physical address adds to the credibility and transparency of the business.

These criteria help us create a detailed and objective profile for each reviewed website. We also ensure that the content created around these assessments is in line with our Content Creation and Retention Policy, and once the evaluation is made, it remains a part of the website’s profile for transparency.

To ensure fairness and prevent misleading evaluations, Trust Score does not rely solely on one factor but rather a combination of multiple elements to determine the overall credibility of a website.

For further details, you can also refer to our Fair Usage Policy and Terms of Service.

What factors are considered in Trust Score’s website evaluations?

Trust Score evaluates websites using a comprehensive set of factors to determine their credibility, transparency, and overall trustworthiness. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the factors considered in our website evaluations:

1. Professional Email Address

• What We Look For: A legitimate business typically uses a professional email address associated with their domain (e.g., [email protected]), rather than generic email providers (e.g., Gmail or Yahoo). A professional email address indicates credibility and a more formal presence.

2. SSL Certificate (Secure Socket Layer)

• What We Look For: We check whether the website is secured with an SSL certificate, which ensures that data transferred between the website and its users is encrypted and secure. Websites with HTTPS are seen as safer and more reliable for transactions and personal information exchanges.

3. Authentic Branding (Logo and Design)

• What We Look For: The presence of an original and professionally designed logo and branding. Websites that present a polished, consistent, and authentic look tend to be more trustworthy. We look for well-established design standards and branding that reflect professionalism.

4. Social Media Presence

• What We Look For: Active and verified social media profiles (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc.) indicate that the business is legitimate and engaged with its customers. A lack of social media presence or poor engagement could be a red flag.

5. Reviews on Other Reputable Platforms

• What We Look For: We analyze reviews and feedback from other credible review platforms and forums. Consistent positive or negative feedback across multiple sources helps us gauge the trustworthiness of the website. Businesses with numerous positive reviews across multiple platforms are generally considered trustworthy.

6. Website Content and Popular Categories

• What We Look For: We assess the type of products or services offered and whether the website’s content aligns with well-known industry standards. Businesses with clearly defined categories and quality content are considered more trustworthy.

7. Domain Age

• What We Look For: A website’s domain age is an important indicator of its stability. Older domains are often associated with more established businesses, while new domains may raise questions regarding their legitimacy. We consider how long the domain has been registered to assess the site’s reliability.

8. Customer Support and Contact Information

• What We Look For: A legitimate business typically offers multiple, clear ways for customers to contact them, including phone numbers, email addresses, and live chat options. We ensure that these contact details are easy to find and responsive. Websites that lack proper customer service channels may be seen as suspicious.

9. Official Business Address

• What We Look For: We verify whether the website lists a physical business address. Providing an official, verifiable business address is an indicator of transparency and adds to the overall trustworthiness of the website.

10. Clear Refund and Return Policy

• What We Look For: A well-defined and transparent refund and return policy shows that the website is serious about customer satisfaction and offers clear terms of service. Businesses that lack or hide such policies may be viewed as untrustworthy.

11. Privacy and Security Policies

• What We Look For: A legitimate business will have clear, easily accessible privacy and security policies. We check whether the website protects user data and complies with relevant laws and regulations, ensuring that customer information is handled with care.

12. Payment Methods

• What We Look For: Secure and trusted payment methods (e.g., Razorpay, Phonepe, secure payment gateways) are a good sign that the business is credible. We verify that the payment options available on the site are secure and commonly used by other established businesses.

13. Website Load Time and Performance

• What We Look For: A professional website will generally have good performance metrics, such as fast load times, mobile responsiveness, and smooth navigation. Poor website performance may be a sign of neglect or potential scams.

These factors collectively contribute to Trust Score’s evaluation of a website’s credibility. We do not rely on a single factor but rather evaluate the overall impression the site makes based on these multiple aspects. Our objective is to provide consumers with a fair, detailed, and reliable assessment of each website’s trustworthiness.

For more detailed information on our evaluation process and how we retain the results, you can refer to our Content Creation and Retention Policy and Retention and Non-Deletion Policy.

Can a business dispute the content or reviews on its profile page?

Yes, a business can dispute the content or reviews on its profile page, but there are specific conditions and processes in place for such disputes.

Disputing Reviews:

If a business believes that a review posted on its profile page is false, misleading, or violates Trust Score’s review guidelines, the business can request a review of the content. However, the following steps apply:

• Review Investigation: Trust Score will investigate the dispute, considering the context, authenticity, and compliance of the review with our Fair Usage Policy and Terms of Service. If the review violates any of our guidelines, it may be removed.
• Consumer-Generated Content: Trust Score is a platform for consumer-generated content, meaning reviews are created by the users based on their personal experiences. We prioritize transparency and fairness by not removing or altering reviews unless they breach our content policies.

Disputing Profile Content:

If a business believes that there is incorrect or misleading information on its profile (such as domain age, SSL status, or contact information), the business can contact Trust Score to report any discrepancies. We will review the content and, if necessary, update the profile to ensure accuracy. However, reviews and ratings will remain part of the profile as per our Retention and Non-Deletion Policy.

How to Dispute:

To dispute content or reviews on the profile page, businesses can:

1. Contact Trust Score: Reach out to our support team via [email protected] with specific details about the dispute.
2. Provide Evidence: Share any supporting evidence that can help verify the accuracy of the claim (e.g., official documents, screenshots, etc.).
3. Await Resolution: Our team will investigate the dispute and take appropriate action based on our policies.

While businesses cannot request to have their profile or reviews removed solely based on dissatisfaction, Trust Score ensures that the platform remains fair and transparent, providing accurate information to both businesses and consumers.

For more details on how disputes are handled, please refer to our Fair Usage Policy and Retention and Non-Deletion Policy.

What should I do if I believe a review violates Trust Score’s policies?

If you believe a review on Trust Score violates our policies, you can take the following steps to report it:

1. Identify the Review in Question

Locate the specific review you believe violates Trust Score’s policies. Ensure you have the necessary details, such as the review content, the business profile it’s associated with, and why you believe it violates our guidelines.

2. Contact Trust Score Support

Send an email to [email protected] with the following information:

• The link to the review or the business profile page where the review is located.
• A clear explanation of why you believe the review violates our policies.
• Any evidence or supporting documentation that supports your claim (e.g., screenshots, transaction details, etc.).

3. Review Investigation

Once your report is received, our team will investigate the matter thoroughly. The review will be assessed based on our Fair Usage Policy and Terms of Service to determine if it breaches guidelines. Examples of violations include, but are not limited to:

• False or misleading information.
• Offensive or defamatory content.
• Spam or promotional reviews.
• Content unrelated to a genuine experience with the business.

4. Resolution and Follow-Up

If the review is found to violate our policies, it will be removed or amended accordingly. We will notify you of the outcome via email at the earliest opportunity.

Important Notes

• Reviews that are genuine but critical of a business are not removed, as they provide valuable insights for consumers.
• Trust Score’s platform prioritizes transparency, so reviews remain unless they breach specific guidelines outlined in our policies.

For further assistance, feel free to contact us at [email protected]

Does Trust Score verify the authenticity of reviews submitted by users?

Yes, Trust Score employs measures to verify the authenticity of reviews submitted by users to maintain the platform’s credibility and transparency. While we aim to provide an open platform for consumer feedback, we have safeguards in place to identify and minimize fraudulent or misleading reviews.

How Trust Score Verifies Reviews:

1. Review Flagging System
   • Users and businesses can flag reviews they believe are false, irrelevant, or violate our policies. Flagged reviews are promptly reviewed by our team to ensure compliance with the Fair Usage Policy.
2. Automated Filters
   • Advanced algorithms and automated filters detect patterns associated with fake or spam reviews, such as:
     • Multiple reviews from the same IP address.
     • Reviews submitted in bulk within a short timeframe.
     • Repeated use of identical content across reviews.
3. Manual Moderation
   • Our team manually reviews flagged or suspicious reviews for authenticity. This includes cross-checking details, analyzing language, and ensuring that the content aligns with a genuine customer experience.
4. Verification Requests
   • In some cases, users may be asked to provide evidence supporting their review (e.g., proof of purchase or transaction details). This ensures that reviews reflect real interactions with the business.
5. User Account Validation
   • Trust Score encourages users to create verified accounts before submitting reviews. This includes providing valid email addresses and, in some cases, additional identity verification to prevent fraudulent activity.

Important Notes:

• While Trust Score takes extensive measures to ensure the authenticity of reviews, it is not always possible to verify every single review.
• Reviews that comply with our Terms of Service and guidelines are retained, even if they are critical of a business, as they provide valuable insights to other consumers.

If you suspect a review is fake or violates our guidelines, you can report it to our team at [email protected] for further investigation.

Why doesn’t Trust Score allow businesses to delete negative reviews?

Trust Score does not allow businesses to delete negative reviews to ensure fairness, transparency, and the credibility of the platform. Our mission is to provide consumers with an honest and unbiased view of businesses based on real customer experiences. Here’s why negative reviews are retained:

1. Transparency and Consumer Trust

• Trust Score prioritizes consumer trust by providing a platform that reflects the full spectrum of customer feedback—both positive and negative.
• Deleting negative reviews would compromise the integrity of the platform and mislead potential customers by presenting a biased view of the business.

2. Consumer-Driven Content

• Reviews on Trust Score are submitted by consumers based on their personal experiences. The platform is consumer-driven, meaning it’s the customers—not businesses or Trust Score—that decide the nature of the feedback shared.
• Our Retention and Non-Deletion Policy ensures that once reviews are posted and comply with our guidelines, they cannot be removed based on their sentiment.

3. Constructive Feedback for Businesses

• Negative reviews provide businesses with an opportunity to understand customer concerns and improve their products or services.
• Responding to negative reviews professionally demonstrates that the business values feedback and is committed to resolving issues.

4. Fairness to All Users

• Allowing businesses to delete negative reviews would create an unfair system, undermining the experiences of customers who had legitimate concerns.
• Trust Score ensures that all voices are heard equally, provided the reviews comply with our Fair Usage Policy.

5. Review Moderation and Reporting

• While businesses cannot delete negative reviews, they can report reviews they believe are false, defamatory, or violate our policies. If the review is found to be in breach of our guidelines, it will be removed after a thorough investigation.

For assistance with reporting a review or learning more about our policies, businesses can contact us at [email protected]. Negative reviews are not meant to penalize businesses but to ensure transparency and help consumers make informed decisions.

How can businesses improve their Trust Score ratings?

Improving Trust Score ratings requires businesses to focus on delivering excellent customer experiences and addressing consumer feedback effectively. Here are actionable steps businesses can take to enhance their ratings:

1. Deliver Exceptional Customer Service

• Ensure customers have a seamless and satisfying experience with your products or services. Happy customers are more likely to leave positive reviews.
• Respond promptly and professionally to inquiries, complaints, and feedback.

2. Actively Request Reviews

• Encourage satisfied customers to share their experiences on Trust Score. This helps balance the feedback and highlights positive interactions.
• Avoid incentivizing reviews, as this violates Trust Score’s Fair Usage Policy. Instead, request reviews organically after a successful transaction or interaction.

3. Respond to Reviews

• Engage with reviewers by thanking them for positive feedback and addressing concerns in negative reviews.
• Show genuine care by offering solutions to resolve issues, which reflects positively on your business’s commitment to customer satisfaction.

4. Monitor and Improve Operations

• Regularly analyze feedback to identify recurring issues or areas of improvement. Use this data to enhance your products, services, or processes.
• Be proactive in addressing complaints to prevent them from becoming negative reviews.

5. Maintain a Professional Online Presence

• Ensure your website is secure (e.g., SSL certification) and professional, with clear contact information, customer support details, and a user-friendly design.
• Build and maintain active social media profiles to engage with customers and showcase your credibility.

6. Encourage Honest Feedback

• Create a transparent culture where customers feel comfortable sharing their genuine experiences. Honest feedback is essential for building trust with potential customers.

7. Report Inaccurate Reviews

• If you believe a review is false, spam, or violates Trust Score policies, report it to our team at [email protected]. We will investigate and take appropriate action if the review breaches our guidelines.

8. Be Transparent with Customers

• Clearly communicate your refund, return, and exchange policies to avoid misunderstandings.
• Provide multiple, reliable ways for customers to contact your business, such as email, phone, or live chat.

9. Showcase Improvements

• If you’ve made significant improvements to address past feedback, update your profile or social media channels to highlight these changes. This shows customers you are proactive and value their opinions.

10. Stay Consistent

• Consistency in service quality and customer engagement builds trust and helps maintain a high rating over time.

By following these steps, businesses can actively work towards improving their Trust Score ratings while fostering trust and loyalty among their customers. For additional guidance, reach out to our support team at [email protected].

Can users edit or delete their submitted reviews?

Yes, users can edit or delete their submitted reviews on Trust Score, subject to certain conditions. This ensures that users maintain control over their content while upholding the integrity of the platform.

Editing a Review

• When Users Can Edit:
  Users can edit their reviews to correct errors, update their feedback based on a changed experience with the business, or provide additional details.
• How to Edit:
  1. Log in to your Trust Score account.
  2. Navigate to the review you wish to edit.
  3. Click the “Edit” option, make your changes, and save them.
• Policy Compliance:
  Edited reviews must continue to comply with Trust Score’s Fair Usage Policy and Terms of Service.

Deleting a Review

• When Users Can Delete:
  Users can delete their reviews if they no longer wish to share their feedback or believe their review is no longer relevant.
• How to Delete:
  1. Log in to your Trust Score account.
  2. Locate the review you want to delete.
  3. Click the “Delete” option and confirm the action.

Important Notes

• Content Retention Policy:
  While users can delete their reviews, Trust Score may retain records of the review content for transparency and compliance purposes, as outlined in our Retention and Non-Deletion Policy.
• Inappropriate Reviews:
  If a review is flagged for policy violations, users may be contacted to edit or remove it. If no action is taken, Trust Score reserves the right to remove such content.

For further assistance with editing or deleting reviews, users can contact our support team at [email protected].

How does Trust Score ensure fairness in its evaluation process?

Trust Score ensures fairness in its evaluation process by adhering to transparent, consistent, and objective practices that prioritize both consumer trust and business accountability. Here’s how we maintain fairness:

1. Objective Evaluation Criteria

• Trust Score evaluates businesses based on clear and standardized criteria, such as:
  • Website professionalism (e.g., SSL security, domain age, and authentic branding).
  • Social media presence and activity.
  • Customer service responsiveness and accessibility (e.g., valid contact details and professional email addresses).
  • Consumer reviews submitted on Trust Score and other platforms.
• These factors ensure evaluations are not influenced by bias or external pressures.

2. Consumer-Driven Reviews

• Trust Score allows consumers to share their honest experiences with businesses. Reviews are not moderated based on sentiment, ensuring that both positive and negative feedback is represented.
• Businesses cannot pay to influence their score or remove negative reviews, as outlined in our Fair Usage Policy.

3. Transparent Review Moderation

• All reviews undergo automated and manual checks to ensure compliance with our guidelines. Fake, misleading, or spammy reviews are flagged and removed.
• Users and businesses can report reviews they believe violate Trust Score policies, which are then investigated thoroughly.

4. Content Creation Based on Verified Data

• Trust Score’s evaluations and content are created using publicly available and verified information, such as:
  • Business website details.
  • Social media activity.
  • Authenticity of customer reviews.
• If inaccuracies are identified in the evaluation, businesses can contact [email protected] to request a review and correction of the content.

5. Equal Opportunity for Businesses

• All businesses, regardless of size or industry, are treated equally in the evaluation process. There are no paid partnerships or preferential treatments that influence scores or reviews.

6. Dispute Resolution Mechanisms

• Businesses can dispute reviews or content they believe are inaccurate or unfair. Trust Score investigates such disputes impartially, ensuring both consumers and businesses are heard.

7. Regular Policy Updates

• Trust Score’s policies are regularly reviewed and updated to align with industry best practices and legal standards. This ensures that our evaluation process remains fair, transparent, and relevant.

By combining objective criteria, transparent policies, and an unbiased approach, Trust Score ensures fairness in all evaluations while fostering trust among businesses and consumers. For any concerns or clarifications, reach out to us at [email protected].

What happens if incorrect information is displayed on a business profile?

If incorrect information is displayed on a business profile, Trust Score has procedures in place to address and correct such inaccuracies promptly while maintaining transparency and fairness.

Steps to Address Incorrect Information:

1. Business Notifies Trust Score

• If a business notices incorrect details on its profile (e.g., website domain, contact information, or other evaluation data), they should immediately notify us by emailing [email protected].
• The business should provide the following details:
  • The specific incorrect information.
  • Evidence or supporting documentation to verify the correct details (e.g., official documents, screenshots, or links).

2. Investigation by Trust Score

• Upon receiving a request, our team will:
  • Verify the reported issue using publicly available and authenticated sources.
  • Cross-check the provided evidence against our records.
  • Determine whether the information requires updating or correction.

3. Updating the Profile

• If the claim is valid, the profile will be updated to reflect the accurate information. This ensures that consumers receive the most reliable and up-to-date details about the business.
• A confirmation email will be sent to the business notifying them of the corrections.

Guidelines for Handling Discrepancies:

• Public Information Only: Trust Score uses publicly accessible data to create business profiles. If certain private details (e.g., internal emails or unpublished addresses) are incorrectly attributed, the business must provide verification to correct it.
• No Alteration of Reviews: Incorrect information regarding evaluations or reviews will not impact consumer-generated reviews unless they are proven to violate our Fair Usage Policy or are flagged as fake or misleading.

Important Considerations:

• Businesses are encouraged to regularly review their profile on Trust Score to ensure accuracy.
• While Trust Score makes every effort to maintain accurate profiles, errors can occur due to outdated or inconsistent public data. Businesses can always reach out for assistance.

For further queries or to report incorrect information, contact us at [email protected]. We are committed to maintaining the credibility and accuracy of our platform to benefit both consumers and businesses.

How long are reviews and evaluations retained on Trust Score?

Reviews and evaluations on Trust Score are retained indefinitely as part of our commitment to transparency and accountability, as outlined in our Retention and Non-Deletion Policy. This ensures that historical data remains accessible and useful for consumers and businesses.

Why Are Reviews Retained Indefinitely?

1. Transparency for Consumers
   • Retaining reviews allows potential customers to assess a business’s track record over time, providing valuable insights into its credibility and consistency.
2. Fair Representation of Businesses
   • Businesses can demonstrate their ability to respond to feedback and improve over time, which is beneficial for both their reputation and consumer trust.
3. Compliance with Platform Policies
   • Reviews and evaluations are part of the consumer-driven content on Trust Score. Deleting them would conflict with our commitment to transparency and neutrality.

Can Reviews or Evaluations Be Removed?

• Reviews or evaluations may only be removed under the following conditions:
  • They violate Trust Score’s Fair Usage Policy (e.g., spam, fake, or offensive content).
  • A legitimate request is made to correct inaccurate evaluations or content through [email protected].

Retention of Archived Data

• Even if a review or evaluation is removed from public view due to policy violations, Trust Score may retain a record of it for internal auditing, compliance, and transparency purposes.

Exceptions to Retention

• Users who delete their reviews can remove them from public view; however, Trust Score may retain the data in accordance with our Data Protection and Privacy Policy.

For any concerns about review retention or related policies, feel free to contact our support team at [email protected].

Are businesses notified when reviews are posted about them?

Yes, businesses are notified when reviews are posted about them on Trust Score, but only if their profile is verified.

For Verified Profiles

• Notification System: Businesses with verified profiles are automatically notified via email whenever a new review is posted. This allows them to stay updated on customer feedback and respond promptly if necessary.
• How to Verify Your Profile:
  1. Submit a verification request through your Trust Score account.
  2. Provide necessary details, such as proof of ownership, official contact information, and a valid business email.
  3. Once verified, you’ll start receiving notifications.

For Unverified Profiles

• Businesses with unverified profiles are not notified about reviews. However, they can still view all reviews publicly available on their profile page.
• Why Verification Matters:
  • Verification ensures businesses are actively managing their Trust Score presence.
  • It also enhances trust with consumers by showing the business’s commitment to transparency.

How Notifications Work for Verified Profiles

• Notifications are sent to the registered email address provided during the verification process.
• Businesses can adjust notification preferences to receive alerts for new reviews, flagged reviews, or updates about their profile.

For assistance with profile verification or notification settings, businesses can contact our support team at [email protected].

What steps does Trust Score take to prevent fake reviews?

Trust Score takes several proactive steps to prevent fake reviews and ensure the integrity of the platform. We are committed to providing a transparent and trustworthy environment for both consumers and businesses. Here’s how we prevent fake reviews:

1. Review Moderation Process

• Automated Filters: Trust Score uses advanced algorithms to automatically detect suspicious patterns in reviews, such as repetitive content, unnatural language, or identical reviews from different users.
• Manual Review: Our team manually reviews flagged or suspicious reviews to verify their authenticity. If a review is found to be fake or violating our policies, it will be removed.

2. Verified User Accounts

• Verified Reviews: Reviews posted by users with verified accounts are considered more reliable. To verify a user account, we may request additional information, such as an email address or phone number. Verified reviews carry more weight in the evaluation process.

3. Tracking IP Addresses and User Behavior

• Trust Score tracks IP addresses and user behavior to identify potentially fake or duplicate reviews. If a large number of reviews originate from the same IP address or exhibit similar patterns, they may be flagged for further investigation.

4. User-Generated Report System

• Flagging Mechanism: Consumers and businesses alike can report suspicious reviews. If a review seems fake or violates our Fair Usage Policy, it can be flagged for review.
• Investigation: Our team investigates flagged reviews and, if found to be fake or misleading, removes them from the platform.

5. Strict Review Guidelines

• Authenticity Standards: We ensure that all reviews meet Trust Score’s review guidelines, which prohibit fake content, spam, and biased feedback. Reviews must reflect actual customer experiences, and businesses cannot pay for or incentivize reviews.
• Prohibition of Incentivized Reviews: Offering rewards or incentives in exchange for reviews is strictly prohibited and monitored. Businesses found violating this rule may face penalties, including removal from the platform.

6. Cross-Platform Review Monitoring

• Consistency Check: Trust Score compares reviews posted on our platform with reviews on other reputable review sites. If inconsistencies or unusual patterns are detected, the reviews are flagged for further investigation.
• External Verification: Trust Score cross-references reviews with trusted third-party sources to ensure the accuracy and credibility of the content.

7. Regular Audits

• Trust Score conducts periodic audits of review data to identify any irregularities, including spikes in reviews from certain users or businesses. These audits help maintain the credibility of the platform and prevent fake reviews from influencing trust scores.

8. Business Profile Verification

• Businesses that claim their profiles on Trust Score undergo a verification process. Verified profiles receive notifications when reviews are posted, and they can report any suspicious or fraudulent activity they notice on their profile pages.

9. Reporting and Dispute Resolution

• Businesses can request the removal of reviews they believe are fake by contacting [email protected]. If a review violates Trust Score’s policies, it will be investigated and removed accordingly.

By implementing these measures, Trust Score ensures that the reviews on our platform are genuine and reliable, providing both consumers and businesses with accurate and trustworthy information. For more details on how we protect against fake reviews, businesses can contact us at [email protected].

Can a business request a re-evaluation of its profile?

Yes, a business can request a re-evaluation of its profile on Trust Score if they believe that the information, reviews, or overall evaluation is inaccurate or outdated.

Steps to Request a Re-Evaluation

1. Contact Support:
   • Businesses can initiate a re-evaluation request by emailing [email protected].
   • Include the following details in your email:
     • The specific aspect of the profile you would like re-evaluated (e.g., reviews, business details, ratings).
     • Supporting evidence (such as updated information, proof of corrections, or improvements made) to substantiate your claim.
2. Review of Request:
   • Once the request is submitted, Trust Score’s team will review the business’s profile and the request for re-evaluation. This may include verifying updated contact information, evaluating new reviews, or checking any changes made to the website or business operations.
3. Evaluation Criteria:
   • Re-evaluations are based on accurate, publicly available information. Trust Score will reassess the profile based on factors such as:
     • Updated business details (e.g., contact info, website, social media links).
     • New reviews or significant changes in customer feedback.
     • Corrected or updated information regarding the business’s services, product offerings, or customer care.
4. Notification:
   • Once the re-evaluation is complete, the business will receive a notification via email regarding the outcome. If necessary, the profile will be updated accordingly.
   • If the re-evaluation does not result in a change, businesses will be informed of the reasons for the decision.

Important Considerations

• Accuracy and Integrity: Trust Score aims to maintain the accuracy and integrity of all profiles. While businesses can request re-evaluations, we ensure that any changes made align with our evaluation standards and Content Creation and Retention Policy.
• Limitations: Re-evaluation requests must be based on factual updates. Repeated or unjustified requests may be declined.

For further assistance with requesting a re-evaluation, businesses can contact us at [email protected].

Why is it important for consumers to have access to all reviews, positive and negative?

It is important for consumers to have access to all reviews, both positive and negative, as it provides a comprehensive and balanced understanding of a business’s reputation. Here’s why transparency in reviews is essential:

1. Informed Decision-Making

• Comprehensive View: Access to both positive and negative reviews allows consumers to make well-informed decisions when considering a business. Positive reviews highlight strengths, while negative reviews provide insight into areas that might need improvement.
• Balanced Perspective: A mix of reviews offers a more accurate representation of a business, allowing consumers to evaluate whether the company meets their expectations and needs.

2. Building Trust and Credibility

• Transparency: When all reviews are displayed, it builds trust. Consumers can see that the business is not hiding negative feedback or trying to manipulate its reputation. This transparency reflects the business’s commitment to authenticity and openness.
• Accountability: Businesses are held accountable for both their positive and negative experiences, encouraging them to improve their services and customer care over time.

3. Authenticity and Reliability of Reviews

• Authentic Experiences: By allowing both positive and negative reviews, consumers can better gauge the authenticity of the reviews. A platform that only showcases positive feedback can appear suspicious or biased, undermining the trustworthiness of the platform.
• Real Customer Feedback: Negative reviews help consumers identify potential red flags, such as poor customer service, quality issues, or delayed deliveries, making the platform more reliable in representing the truth.

4. Encouraging Business Improvement

• Constructive Feedback: Negative reviews often provide valuable insights that businesses can use to improve their services or products. When businesses acknowledge and address complaints, they can demonstrate their commitment to customer satisfaction.
• Incentive for Improvement: Seeing both sides of customer feedback pushes businesses to continuously enhance their offerings, improve customer service, and build a better reputation over time.

5. Equal Representation of All Consumers

• Fair Treatment: Negative reviews allow the voices of unsatisfied consumers to be heard, ensuring that all customers, not just those with positive experiences, have the opportunity to share their feedback. This prevents biased representation of businesses.
• Encouraging Accountability: By presenting all reviews, businesses are encouraged to respond to negative feedback and resolve issues, promoting a more customer-centric approach.

6. Consumer Protection

• Preventing Deceptive Practices: When negative reviews are hidden or removed, businesses that fail to deliver quality services or products may not be exposed, leading to potential consumer harm. Displaying both positive and negative reviews helps protect consumers from fraudulent or unethical businesses.
• Better Consumer Choice: Access to a full spectrum of reviews helps consumers identify businesses that are honest, reliable, and capable of addressing concerns effectively.

7. Trust Score’s Commitment to Transparency

• At Trust Score, we believe in showcasing a fair and transparent platform where both positive and negative reviews contribute to a business’s overall trust score. This supports our mission to provide consumers with accurate and reliable information to guide their purchasing decisions.

For any concerns or issues related to reviews, consumers and businesses can contact [email protected].

What is Unverified Profile on Business Profile page?

An Unverified Profile on Trust Score refers to a business profile that has not yet been claimed by its real owner or authorized representative. This means the business information on the profile has been created, but the business has not yet gone through the process of verifying its ownership or management with Trust Score.

Key Characteristics of an Unverified Profile

1. No Claim by Business Owner:
   The business profile exists, but it has not been claimed by the official business owner or authorized representative. Without claiming, the business cannot control or manage its profile.
2. No Trust Score Badge:
   Unverified profiles do not display the Trust Score badge, which indicates that the business has been officially verified by Trust Score.
3. Limited Features and Capabilities:
   • No Response to Reviews: Businesses that haven’t claimed their profile cannot respond to or interact with customer reviews posted on their profile.
   • No Notifications: The business will not receive notifications about new reviews, feedback, or activity related to the profile.
4. Increased Consumer Skepticism:
   Consumers may view unclaimed profiles with caution, as they lack verification and active management by the business. This can affect the trust and reputation of the business.

Why Should a Business Claim Its Profile?

Claiming the business profile offers several significant advantages:

1. Ability to Respond to Reviews:
   • Once the business profile is claimed, the business owner can respond to reviews, both positive and negative. This helps build trust with customers and manage the company’s online reputation.
2. Trust Score Badge:
   • After verification, businesses receive the Trust Score badge, a symbol that signifies that the business has been confirmed as legitimate. This enhances the business’s credibility and trustworthiness in the eyes of consumers.
3. Control Over Business Information:
   • By claiming the profile, businesses can update and manage their profile details (e.g., contact info, address, social media links, etc.) to ensure that all information is accurate and up-to-date.
4. Access to Additional Features:
   • Claiming the profile unlocks several features, such as the ability to:
     • Respond to reviews.
     • Update business information.
     • Receive notifications when new reviews are posted.
     • Gain visibility in search results with a verified, professional profile.
5. Improved Customer Trust and Engagement:
   • A claimed and verified profile demonstrates that the business is actively engaged with its customers, responsive to feedback, and transparent about its practices.

How to Claim an Unverified Profile?

1. Receive Claiming Email:
   Businesses that wish to claim their profile can request a claim link via email. You will receive instructions on how to verify your ownership of the business and take control of the profile.
2. Submit Necessary Information:
   Typically, you will need to provide documentation to verify the authenticity of the business, such as:
   • Proof of ownership or authorized management.
   • Official contact information (business email, phone number, address).
   • Additional requested information to confirm your identity as the rightful owner or representative of the business.
3. Claim and Verification Process:
   Once the necessary information is submitted and verified by Trust Score, your profile will be marked as “Claimed” and “Verified,” granting you full control over the profile.

Contact for Profile Claiming

If you’re ready to claim your business profile or have questions about the process, reach out to our support team at [email protected]. We’ll guide you through the claim and verification process, ensuring your profile is fully controlled and optimized.

Claiming and verifying your business profile is an important step in establishing credibility, responding to customers, and taking full advantage of the Trust Score platform.