Restaurant Owners Speak Out Against Coordinated Extortion Scheme
Several Montreal restaurants have become victims of an elaborate extortion scheme involving fake Google reviews, with business owners now speaking out about the coordinated attacks on their establishments. The scam, which has targeted multiple restaurants across the city, involves perpetrators posting negative reviews on Google before demanding payment to remove them.
Local Business Impact in Little Italy
Among the affected establishments is Limbo restaurant, located in Montreal's vibrant Little Italy neighborhood. Co-owners Jack Zeppetelli and Harrison Shewchuk have confirmed their business was targeted in this disturbing pattern of digital extortion. The restaurant, like others affected, received threatening communications from individuals claiming responsibility for the fake reviews and demanding money to stop the campaign.
The situation came to light in November 2025, with business owners reporting the incidents to local authorities. According to reports, the scammers follow a consistent pattern: they first post multiple negative reviews on the restaurant's Google Business profile, then contact the business demanding payment to remove the damaging content and prevent further negative reviews.
Broader Implications for Small Businesses
This extortion attempt highlights the vulnerability of small businesses to online reputation manipulation. For restaurants that rely heavily on positive online reviews to attract customers, such attacks can have significant financial consequences. The fake reviews often contain false claims about food quality, service, or cleanliness, potentially driving away potential customers.
Montreal police are actively investigating the incidents, though no arrests have been announced specifically related to the restaurant extortion cases. Business owners are being advised to document all suspicious communications and report them immediately to authorities rather than paying any demanded funds.
The Montreal restaurant community has shown solidarity in response to these attacks, with many establishments sharing information and warning others about the potential threat. Industry associations are also providing guidance on how to handle fake reviews and extortion attempts through proper channels.
