So that the holiday doesn't turn into a flop, you should be careful when booking so that you don't fall for fake offers. You can protect yourself with these tips.
For many, holidays are just around the corner. The only thing missing is the right accommodation. It sounds tempting at first: Holiday apartment, houseboat or mountain hut - with a small deposit, the trip can be booked in advance. T
When holidaymakers arrive on site, the providers are suddenly no longer available and the money is gone. Time and time again, people who love to travel fall for false advertisements for vacation rentals. How can you protect yourself from this? The Lower Saxony consumer center has collected a few points.
- Be careful with bookings where not only a deposit, but the entire rental amount is required regardless of the travel period.
- Even if the name, address and telephone number of the landlord are missing and contact is only possible via e-mail and Whatsapp, the consumer advice center advises caution.
- How detailed is the description of the accommodation? If important information is missing, vacationers should be suspicious.
- If the landlord wants to continue communication outside of the platform, consumer advocates see the first warning signs of fake offers.
- Never transfer the rental price or a deposit outside the platform. Cash transfer services such as Western Union or Money Gram are, according to consumer advice centers, a sure sign of fraudsters. It is best to pay by credit card or direct debit. In the event of fraud, the money can be reclaimed from the bank. However, they must be informed as soon as possible. If possible, pay in cash on site.
What if it's too late and you've been taken in by the scammers? The consumer advice center advises reporting the incident to the police immediately - and notifying the respective platform operator.
If you have already made a payment, you should contact the bank and arrange a chargeback if possible.
