Greece’s Public Employment Service (DYPA) has issued a warning over a new scam targeting beneficiaries of its Social Tourism Program, urging citizens to be cautious of unauthorized third-party services charging fees for accommodation bookings.
According to the agency, private platforms, websites and businesses have been advertising paid services related to finding or booking accommodation participating in the program, falsely implying cooperation with DYPA.
In an official statement, DYPA clarified that it has not authorized any private entity to act on its behalf or provide fee-based services connected to participation in the Social Tourism Program.
The agency stressed that all communication and reservations for participating accommodation providers are carried out directly between beneficiaries and providers, without the involvement of intermediaries or the payment of commissions.
DYPA called on beneficiaries to be particularly careful in cases where they are asked to pay money for services presented as necessary for booking accommodation through the program.
At the same time, the agency urged accommodation providers participating in the scheme to immediately report any practices that may mislead beneficiaries or commercially exploit their participation without consent.
Authorities said they are already examining related complaints and are taking the necessary steps to protect both beneficiaries and participating businesses.
DYPA also reminded the public that official information about the Social Tourism Program is available exclusively through its official communication channels and announcements.
