The instances of fraudulent or misleading holiday rental advertisements on digital platforms are on the rise, and there is a lack of legislation to protect consumers, warns DECO PROteste on Tuesday, urging consumers to exercise “caution” when making these bookings.
The consumer protection organization also advises individuals, “if you become a victim of fraud, do not give up,” since “many complaints are successfully resolved with the support of the consumer organization.”
“In 2024, DECO PROteste received 17,000 requests for consumer assistance, achieving a positive outcome in 70% of the cases. Therefore, if you are in the right, file a complaint and do not give up when faced with difficulties,” states the organization’s website.
However, “not all outcomes are positive, especially when there is a lack of legislation that protects consumer rights, such as in cases of fraud and other issues arising from property advertisement websites,” laments DECO PROteste.
“There is an urgent need to protect the rights of users of online accommodation platforms. Currently, these sites do not assume any responsibility for the transaction between the host (who places the advertisement) and the guest. Thus, when booking a house or hotel room through these means, consumers may be doing so at their own risk,” the organization warns.
Read This Before Booking
The organization advises that “before booking accommodation, read the complete dossier on holiday home scams to recognize warning signs and learn how to report fraud if you become a victim.” It can be accessed here.
