WhatsApp Scam Impersonating Booking.com Targets Vacationers in Germany

A phishing campaign on WhatsApp is targeting travelers who have booked accommodation through the online platform Booking.com. Fraudsters send messages from a falsified corporate account, claiming the booking requires additional information. The messages contain a link to a fraudulent site such as "form.reception‑en8769.com", which asks for personal details and credit‑card numbers. The scammers base the messages on real booking data they previously harvested from the official Booking.com website, making the request appear authentic. Warning signs include an abrupt change of language in the conversation and any unexpected confirmation link. Watchlist Internet advises users to verify requests directly on the booking platform and to avoid sharing sensitive data through unsolicited WhatsApp links.

Victims who follow the link and provide information may suffer financial loss and identity theft. The campaign highlights the ongoing risk of cybercrime exploiting travel‑related communications.