EU Probes Booking.com Over Fake Listings, Phishing Scams And Hidden Advertisements

The European Commission is investigating Booking.com for potential violations of the EU's Digital Services Act, focusing on fraudulent listings and unclear advertising. The probe will assess if the platform adequately protects users from scams and properly labels paid search results. The outcome could impact Booking.com's operations and compliance costs.

The European Commission is investigating Booking.com for potential security and transparency violations under the Digital Services Act (DSA). The probe focuses on phishing risks, data sharing with accommodation providers, messaging service design, and advertising practices. Non-compliance could result in fines up to 6% of Booking.com's global annual turnover. The investigation follows reports of phishing campaigns targeting Booking.com customers and partners.

The EU's highest court ruled that hosts on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com can be required to obtain authorization in Brussels, but Belgian judges must ensure the rules are justified and protect rights. The Brussels Court of Appeal will now decide on rental operator Smartflats' challenge.

The European Commission is investigating Booking.com's measures to combat fraudulent listings, phishing scams, and transparency of ads, citing potential breaches of the Digital Services Act. The inquiry follows a preliminary probe and will focus on compliance with EU online content rules. The Commission may take further action if necessary, including interim measures or accepting commitments from Booking.com.

The European Commission is investigating Booking.com for potential data protection violations, including fake ads, lack of transparency in paid rankings, and exposure to phishing scams. Fines could reach 6% of turnover if rules were breached. Booking.com reports a 500% increase in scams from 2022 to 2024, with €4.2B in fraud in 2024. The company is cooperating with the investigation.

The European Commission has opened an investigation into Booking.com for potential breaches of EU internet rules and the Digital Services Act. The probe focuses on fraudulent listings, phishing scams, and transparency of paid ads. The Commission will assess whether Booking.com has adequately addressed these risks and complied with advertising transparency obligations.