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Tengrinews.kz - Travelers were warned that using Booking.com could result in loss of funds, according to Travel Weekly.
Travelers who book hotels through the popular Booking.com service have been warned about a new fraud scheme that could result in losses of several thousand tenge. Action Fraud reported that fraudsters are sending fake emails and messages, posing as hotel representatives.
How the scheme works
Fraudsters gain access to hotel accounts on Booking.com. Using these accounts, they send messages in which they demand payment for a reservation and provide bank card details or other confidential information. Messages can come through the built-in Booking.com messenger, email, or even WhatsApp.
From June 2023 to September 2024, 532 complaints were received from victims. The total losses amounted to £370,000 - more than 239 million tenge.
How to recognize a scam
Adam Mercer, deputy head of Action Fraud, explained that customers should be especially wary if they receive unexpected requests for payment or bank details from a hotel where they have booked.
Signs of a scam:
- a request for payment that was not included in your original booking;
- a request to provide bank card details by phone, message, or email;
- requests for urgent payment, threats to cancel the booking;
- links to suspicious sites or to download files.
What to do if you receive a suspicious message
Booking.com and Action Fraud recommend the following:
- never provide your card details via phone, email, or instant messengers;
- check any payment requests through the official Booking.com website or app;
- if in doubt, contact the official Booking.com support team;
- do not click on links or download files from suspicious messages.
Booking.com fraud involves compromised hotel accounts. Users should be extremely careful to avoid losses.
Earlier, tourists in Spain were being warned about a new type of scam: street hugs, which result in tourists being deprived of money, gadgets, and other valuables.
This type of fraud appeared in Madrid. Local police officers confiscated more than 40 thousand euros, 11 watches, and several pieces of jewelry from "tourist-friendly" compatriots.
