When Online Reviews Become Weapons: The Unseen Battle Small Businesses Face
By Manny D.
Social media and review platforms were meant to amplify great service, foster transparency, and help consumers make informed choices. But these tools, when abused, can quickly turn into weapons, used not to inform, but to intimidate and destroy. False and malicious reviews can severely harm a company’s reputation, costing them future work, trust, and in some cases, their livelihood.
A powerful example is what recently happened to Mareci & Steele Construction, a company known for quality craftsmanship and genuine care for its clients and community. After surviving the strain of California’s wildfires, Mareci & Steele stepped up to help rebuild homes, restore properties, and support their neighbors. Their work speaks for itself, reliable, timely, and honest.
Unfortunately, not every client plays fair.
The Truth Behind the Review
Ms. Gaglio hired Mareci & Steele to remove and install over 140 feet of fencing. Due to an internal miscalculation, the company undercharged her by $500, a loss they covered without complaint. The job was completed to their usual high standards. However, Ms. Gaglio delayed her payment and only settled after the company had to inform her of a potential lien due to non-payment.
Following that, she launched a targeted smear campaign. She posted misleading reviews, using before photos to claim the job was never completed, ignoring the after photos that prove otherwise. What’s worse, she created multiple fake accounts to push her false narrative further and she’s done this not just to Mareci, but to others as well, including the painter on the same job, whom she still owes thousands of dollars.
This isn’t a matter of opinion, it’s a deliberate attempt to damage reputations and silence professionals who simply asked to be paid for honest work.
What Can Businesses Do?
Document everything. From contracts to text messages and photos, proof is your strongest defense.
Respond clearly and respectfully. Address misinformation calmly and factually.
Report abuse. Most platforms allow you to flag content that violates community guidelines.
Seek legal advice when necessary. Defamation and harassment are serious matters.
Ask your real clients to speak up. The truth is powerful when it comes from those you’ve helped.
Stand With Mareci & Steele Construction
Through one of the hardest periods in recent California history, Mareci & Steele have continued to show up, work hard, and serve with heart. They’ve been rebuilding homes and restoring hope long after the flames have died out. That kind of dedication should be celebrated, not attacked.
We must protect our local businesses from dishonest tactics that aim to bring them down. Support those who show up when it counts. Recognize the difference between a real review and a vendetta.
If you want dependable, professional, and community-rooted service, Mareci & Steele is the team you can trust. We proudly and fully recommend them.