The Clone Site Reputation Problem
Clone sites scam customers who think they’re buying from you. When products never arrive, those customers:
- Leave negative reviews on Google
- Post on social media
- File BBB complaints
- Tell friends to avoid “you”
You’re blamed for scams you didn’t commit.
Responding to Negative Reviews
When You Find a Scam-Related Review
-
Respond publicly with empathy
- Acknowledge their frustration
- Explain you’re the real store
- Offer to help identify the scam
- Provide your real contact
-
Don’t be defensive
- They’re a victim too
- Anger won’t help
- Professionalism shows legitimacy
-
Document and report
- Screenshot the review
- Use to support clone takedown
- Report fake site
Example Response
“We’re so sorry to hear about your experience. After reviewing our records, we don’t have an order matching your description - it appears you may have purchased from a fraudulent site impersonating our brand. This is [your official website]. We’re actively working to take down these scam sites. Please contact us at [email] and we’ll help however we can, including reporting the fraudulent site.”
Preventing Clone-Related Reviews
Find Clones Before Damage
SecurEcommerce clone detection:
- Alerts you immediately when copied
- Monitors for typosquats
- Helps you act fast
The faster you find clones, the less damage they cause.
Educate Customers
Proactively communicate:
- Your official domain
- How to verify legitimacy
- Warning about scams
Quick Clone Takedown
When detected, act immediately:
- Report to hosting provider
- Report to domain registrar
- Report to Google Safe Browsing
Recovery Takes Time
Even after takedown:
- Reviews may remain
- Social media posts persist
- Customer memory lingers
But consistent legitimate operation gradually rebuilds trust.