It has been reported that there have been 18 holiday home booking scams reported to the GNR during July and August particularly in the areas of Vilamoura, Albufeira, Portimao and Olhao.

This involves holiday homes advertised on the internet and after the deposit has been paid nothing further was heard from the holiday home provider. On one day very recently 8 such complaints were made to the GNR. In one particularly case a lady lost her deposit of €700 and others have also lost amounts from €300 upwards.

The Central Bureau of Investigation and Criminal Action (DCIAP/PGR has issued an alert on this subject.

Safe Communities Algarve has comprehensive advice on this subject on its website which was drawn up following correspondence with a specialist lawyer in the UK. The advice can be found at our How to Avoid Bogus Holiday Rental scams