Safeonweb warns of WhatsApp hotel booking scams

Safeonweb has issued a warning regarding a sophisticated phishing scam targeting hotel and B&B guests via WhatsApp. Scammers send urgent payment requests to confirm reservations, often using legitimate booking details such as names, dates, and reference numbers to appear authentic.

These stolen details are believed to originate from previous data leaks. In one reported instance in Belgium, a traveler was tricked into paying a 140 euro “deposit” via a fraudulent link to secure a room, resulting in the loss of funds.

Authorities advise that legitimate hotels rarely request payments through WhatsApp. To avoid fraud, customers should never click on payment links sent via messaging apps. Instead, they should verify reservation status through official hotel websites, booking platforms, or by calling the accommodation directly using a verified phone number.