Too good to be true? PSP and Airbnb warn of spike in holiday booking scams

As thousands of people book their summer holidays, Portugal’s Public Security Police (PSP) is warning travellers to be on their guard against online accommodation scams, saying fraudsters are becoming increasingly active during the busiest booking period of the year.

The warning, issued in partnership with Airbnb, comes as holiday reservations reach their annual peak, with scammers using fake websites, fraudulent accommodation listings and requests for payments outside legitimate booking platforms to target people looking for the best deals.

According to the PSP, criminals often take advantage of travellers eager to secure cheaper accommodation, creating convincing copies of well-known booking websites or encouraging customers to complete payments outside official platforms, where consumer protections no longer apply.

“With the holiday season approaching, we strongly advise travellers to exercise greater caution when making reservations,” PSP spokesperson Superintendent Sérgio Soares said.

“It is becoming increasingly important to stay alert and cautious, asking for information and discussing any doubts with people you trust. The more people are aware of these scams, the less successful fraudsters become.”

He added that anyone who suspects they have been targeted should keep all emails, messages and other communications before reporting the crime to the PSP.

The awareness campaign says all reservations should be completed through recognised booking platforms rather than via direct bank transfers or private payment requests.

How to avoid holiday booking scams

The PSP recommends that travellers:

Never click on unexpected links sent by email or text message.

Report suspected scams and keep copies of all communications.

Be suspicious of deals that seem too good to be true or pressure to book immediately.

Avoid direct bank transfers or payments requested outside official booking systems.

Book, communicate and pay only through trusted platforms.

Use strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication where available.

Airbnb’s General Manager for Spain and Portugal, Jaime Rodríguez de Santiago, said the company continues to work with authorities and cybersecurity partners to identify and prevent fraudulent activity.

Michael Bruxo

Journalist for the Portugal Resident.