HRWAI seeks at strengthening the online regulations with law enforcement agencies

by  EVENTFAQS Bureau Industry Watch | May 10, 2023 | News

HRWAI Law Enforcement Agencies Cyber Criminal Activities

The Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India (HRAWI) has expressed concern over the rising incidences of online hotel rooms booking frauds as well as instances of targeted smear campaigns on social media against hospitality brands. The association has identified cyber-criminal activities that list fake hotels websites on popular search engines that appear to be authentic and dupe unsuspecting customers into making payments for room bookings. Member establishments of the Association have voiced concern about their brand reputation being tarnished by social media influencers creating fake videos or posting fake reviews in a bid to attract more views and followers.

Taking into account the rapid recurrence of such instances over the last one year, HRAWI has planned to take up the issue with the concerned Government authorities and law enforcement agencies. It also intends to reach out to online platforms that freely allow miscreants to dupe unsuspecting customers and malign the reputation of brands, for a stronger regulation of content posted on their platforms.

HRAWI has strongly condemned these malicious activities and urged customers to be vigilant when making bookings online. The association also advised customers to book only through authentic websites and social media pages of hotels and restaurants and to report any suspicious activity to the concerned authorities.

Pradeep Shetty, President, HRAWI said, “The issue of cyber criminals creating fake booking websites of hotels and restaurants is a matter of serious concern to the industry. Such activities not only cause financial loss to customers but also severely damage the reputation of the hospitality establishments. We urge customers to be vigilant while making bookings online and to report any suspicious activity to the concerned authorities. HRAWI will approach the Government to enact laws to protect citizens and commercial enterprises from social media influencers who misuse their following to blackmail honest establishments.”

He further added, “We will report specific instances to law enforcement agencies to identify and take action against cyber criminals. We will also escalate the matter and take it up with the online platforms that allow such anti-social elements to freely misuse their platforms. HRAWI remains committed to promoting and protecting the interests of the hotel and restaurant industry, and will continue to work towards creating a safe and secure environment for customers and businesses alike.”

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