CALIFORNIA: Google Maps has disabled reviews for the Gulf of Mexico after backlash over its renaming as the “Gulf of America.”
The tech giant changed the name for US users after President Donald Trump ordered the modification in government records.
Clicking the label on Google Maps now displays a message stating, “posting is currently turned off.”
Google also appears to have erased some negative reviews following the controversial name update.
A notification states that some locations receive posts violating policies, leading to restricted posting.
Censorship Concerns
The last visible review for the Gulf on Google Maps appears to be from a month ago.
Some users claim their critical reviews objecting to the change have been removed.
They have accused Google of “censorship” on social media platforms.
“Review-bombing” has become a frequent online protest against businesses or services listed on Google Maps.
The strategy has also been used to manipulate app ratings on digital marketplaces.
Past Incidents
In 2020, people bombarded former President Trump’s re-election app with negative reviews over a TikTok ban proposal.
GameStop traders also used this method to protest stock-trading apps like Robinhood during the 2021 market turmoil.
Google says it actively detects review manipulation using automated tools.
Unusual spikes in one-star ratings may lead to content removal or temporary restrictions.
Google claims it takes action to prevent abuse of its review system.
Media Response
Forbes reported Thursday that Google had “tacitly admitted” to deleting reviews critical of the Gulf renaming.
Earlier, Google stated that US users would see “Gulf of America” replacing “Gulf of Mexico” on Maps.
The company cited a “longstanding policy” of reflecting government-verified name changes.
In other regions, “Gulf of Mexico” will remain unchanged, but “Gulf of America” will appear in brackets.
Mexico’s Opposition
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum formally requested that Google refrain from renaming the Gulf.
She expressed opposition to the change in a letter sent in late January.
Meanwhile, Apple has also updated its Maps app for US users, reflecting the new name.
The White House shared an Apple Maps screenshot displaying “Gulf of America” on its X account.
The renaming continues to spark debate, with critics questioning its necessity and implications.
