Nicosia, Cyprus. The Cyprus Consumers Association said it has received 15 complaints in recent days linked to online fraud involving a popular accommodation booking platform. The association said the complaints were recorded over the past three to four days.
Fraudulent messages and payment requests
Speaking to CNA, the association’s legal officer, Virginia Christou, said fraudsters appear to be sending messages that look as though they originate from the platform, using its logo, email address and customers’ personal details, including booking information and contact data.
According to Christou, the messages request a payment of around €100, supposedly to confirm a reservation. She said that in several cases, consumers proceeded with the payment.
Christou said these payments do not reach the official platform and are therefore not recognised as valid reservation payments.
Consumer warning and platform procedures
The Consumers Association urged the public to exercise increased caution and said major platforms do not request additional payments via email or make sudden changes to their procedures.
Complaints about holiday packages
Christou said initial complaints have also begun to emerge regarding holiday packages that were either not delivered at all or only partially fulfilled.
She said the association advises consumers to assert their rights and seek compensation wherever violations are identified. Christou added that consumers are entitled to compensation, particularly when parts of a travel package, such as scheduled excursions, are not carried out but have been fully paid for.
Have you received a message requesting an extra payment to confirm a reservation or travel package?