The European Commission has launched an investigation into Booking.com to determine if the company has violated the Digital Services Act (DSA) by failing to adequately combat fraudulent advertisements and phishing schemes. The DSA mandates that online platforms actively work to curb illegal content. According to the Commission, Booking.com processes 66 percent of all online hotel reservations in Europe, and the platform itself reports a fivefold increase in fraudulent activities between 2022 and 2024. EU Commissioner Henna Virkkunen emphasized the need for travelers to book holidays without fear of being scammed, and stressed that Booking.com, as a leading European booking platform, must take its responsibilities seriously. The investigation will assess whether Booking.com properly identifies risks associated with illegal advertisements and phishing, and if it has implemented effective measures to protect users, including removing false listings. The Commission will also examine transparency regarding paid placements in search results on Booking.com.