Israeli Tourists Scammed in Rhodes After Booking Email Leads to Fake Rental

An Israeli group traveling to Rhodes, Greece, fell victim to a financial scam after booking accommodation through Booking.com. Anat from central Israel planned a trip for six adults and initially searched for lodging on Booking.com. When the property owner did not confirm the reservation within 24 hours, Booking.com provided Anat with the owner's email, suggesting she contact them directly.

Anat then communicated via WhatsApp with a woman claiming to be the property manager, who insisted they only worked through TripAdvisor and sent a payment link. After difficulties with the payment, the woman instructed Anat to make a bank transfer of 1,540 euros via SWIFT, providing a TripAdvisor invoice. Two days later, the woman confirmed receipt of the payment and said they were awaiting the group.

Upon arrival at the address in Rhodes, Anat and her friends found the property locked and inhabited by a local family. A neighbor informed them that the property was occupied and that this was the third scam reported that month involving the same contact. The WhatsApp number went silent, confirming the fraud. Stranded in 40-degree heat, the group was helped by a local hostel owner where they eventually stayed.

Anat expressed regret for not verifying the details more thoroughly despite the initial legitimacy suggested by receiving the email through Booking.com. She warned others to be cautious to avoid similar scams.