The Italian competition authority has officially released guidelines for online reviews, focusing on promoting trustworthy feedback from consumers who have genuinely used or purchased products and services.

These guidelines were adopted after consultations with the Italian Communications Authority, the Data Protection Authority, the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy, and the Ministry of Tourism. They aim to address the issue of illicit online reviews, particularly in the restaurant and tourism sectors.

Professionals offering goods and services are required to provide clear and accessible information on how reviews are published, managed, classified, and moderated. They must also implement reasonable measures to ensure that reviews accurately reflect real consumer experiences and establish appropriate checks to identify and address illicit reviews.

The guidelines also clarify practices that may manipulate reviews, helping to recognize and prevent their misuse. They will be reviewed and updated within a year or in response to changes in national or European legislation or significant judicial developments.