Companies deceive users by posing as private renters on Airbnb and Booking.com
- Spain's government is investigating short-term rental companies for misleading practices.
- These companies allegedly claim to be private individuals while managing multiple properties.
- The investigation highlights the government's effort to protect local housing markets amidst rising tourism.
In recent months, Spain's leftist government has initiated an investigation into companies managing short-term apartment rentals for tourists amid a significant increase in visitor numbers. The investigation stems from growing public concern over overtourism and the rising costs of living, particularly rising rents and diminishing availability of affordable housing. As concerns have risen among local communities regarding the economic impact of short-term rentals, the consumer rights ministry reported allegations against companies that manage numerous tourist homes. These companies have been accused of posing as private individuals on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com to attract customers unjustly. Specifically, companies are allegedly creating various profiles for each apartment they list online, often portraying fictitious