In travel news for December 13, 2023 we talk about the increased cyber threats to users of booking.com.
Key Points
- Increasing cyber attacks targeting Booking.com customers.
- Hackers using dark web to find hotel login details.
- Travelers tricked into fraudulent payments.
In recent developments, travelers using Booking.com are facing an alarming rise in cyber attacks. Hackers are actively seeking login details of hotels, posing a significant threat to travelers worldwide. This concerning trend has escalated since March, with numerous reports of travelers being defrauded.
Understanding the Scam: A Deeper Look
Hackers have devised cunning strategies to infiltrate the administration portals of hotels listed on Booking.com. Using malware they trick hotel staff with seemingly innocent emails, leading to the unintentional downloading of this software. Once inside the system, they gain access to Booking.com's portal, viewing customer reservations and masquerading as hotel staff to deceive guests into making payments directly to them.
The impact is global, with cases reported from the U.S., the U,K., Indonesia, Singapore, Greece, Italy, Portugal, and the Netherlands. Travelers are urged to be vigilant, especially when contacted through the app or email regarding payments.
Protective Measures and Recommendations
Experts suggest that hotels should adopt multi-factor authentication to bolster security. Meanwhile, Booking.com has implemented warning messages in chat windows, but more proactive measures such as blocking links in chats to newly created websites might further protect unsuspecting travelers.
In one instance, a traveler was contacted via the Booking.com app and persuaded to transfer funds, believing it to be a hotel staff request. This highlights the sophistication of the scam, which uses social engineering tactics to exploit trust.
Booking.com's Response
Booking.com acknowledges the seriousness of these breaches, emphasizing that their system remains secure, but their hotel partners' accounts have been compromised. The company is actively working with partners to secure their systems and assisting impacted customers, including aiding in recovering lost funds.
Final Thoughts
This surge in cyber attacks on Booking.com users is a stark reminder of the evolving threats in the digital travel space. Travelers must exercise increased caution, especially regarding online communications and payments. It's not just about finding the best deals anymore; it's also about safeguarding personal information and financial transactions from sophisticated cybercriminals. As the industry adapts to these challenges, staying informed and vigilant remains the best defense for travelers worldwide.
