European consumers face surge in fraud scams from Hong Kong invoices to fake vacation bookings

German consumers are being targeted by a scheme that sends professional‑looking invoices for €200 in the name of Hong Kong‑based Margot Brands Ltd. The letters claim payment for digital services the recipients never ordered and often include personal data taken from previous leaks. The Consumer Protection Agency of Baden‑Württemberg warned that victims who dispute the bill may receive further manipulated documents.

In Belgium, a separate wave of fraud focuses on people who have recently booked hotels, apartments or holiday homes through platforms such as Booking.com. The Fraudhelpdesk reports that scammers use WhatsApp, SMS or e‑mail messages that contain reservation details and ask recipients to verify payment information or make an additional transfer on a counterfeit website. Both scams aim to steal money and personal data from unsuspecting consumers.