Booking.com Faces EU Probe Over Fraudulent Listings

EU regulators are investigating Booking.com for potential breaches of the Digital Services Act, focusing on fake listings, phishing scams, and transparency of paid placements. The probe examines the company's risk assessment and fraud prevention measures. Booking.com faces potential fines up to 6% of its global turnover. The Dutch consumer association reported significant financial losses due to scams involving the platform.

The European Commission is investigating Booking.com over potential violations of the Digital Services Act, focusing on fraud and phishing prevention. The commission cites a 500-fold increase in fraudulent practices from 2022 to 2024 and questions the company's risk assessment and data protection measures.

Booking Holdings (BKNG) shares fell 3.8% after the European Commission began investigating potential breaches of the Digital Services Act, including risks from fake listings and unclear ad labeling. The stock later recovered slightly to $158.11, down 3.6%. The company faces regulatory uncertainty, which may impact its European operations and investor sentiment. BKNG is down 25.8% year-to-date and 28% below its 52-week high.

EU regulators opened a formal probe into Booking.com, accusing it of inadequate measures against fraud and scams. Concerns include fraudulent listings, phishing, and insufficient labeling of paid advertisements. The investigation, under the Digital Services Act, will assess Booking.com's risk management and content moderation practices. According to EU officials, fraud cases linked to Booking.com have risen sharply, with 1,072 reports in early 2026 and estimated losses of €82,000.

The European Commission is investigating Booking.com for potential violations of the Digital Services Act, focusing on fake listings, phishing, and unlabelled ads. The probe follows a review of Booking.com's risk assessments. The company faces fines up to 6% of global revenue if found in violation. Booking.com states it prioritizes user safety and is cooperating with regulators.

The European Commission opened an inquiry into Booking.com, investigating potential violations of the Digital Services Act related to fraudulent listings, phishing scams, and transparency in ad labeling. Booking.com is cooperating, stating security and trust are priorities. The EC will examine data sharing practices and messaging service design. Separately, scam prevention expert Erin West discussed tracking overseas scammers via digital records.