2 If there was never a fly in the ointment | Prager Dreifuss
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Subject: IP & IT
Autor: Mark Meili
Paper: Hotellerie Gastronomie Zeitung HGZ
Reading time: 2 Min
22.05.2026

If there was never a fly in the ointment

Online reviews can have a significant impact on a business’s success, especially when they contain false claims.  
 

Subjective opinions, such as criticism of taste, must be accepted; however, false factual claims can be challenged in court. The first step is to preserve evidence by taking screenshots with the date and URL, as well as conducting an internal review to verify whether the reviewer was actually a guest. Often, a professional response, direct contact, and a report to the review platform can help limit the damage.  
If that is not enough, civil or criminal legal actions such as removal, injunctions, or damages may be considered.