Question 1

What is the "Fake Online Reservation Portals for Byblos Guesthouses" scam in Byblos?

Accepted Answer

Fraudulent booking websites mimic legitimate Lebanese guesthouse and boutique hotel listings in Byblos, collecting prepayment via wire transfer or cryptocurrency before disappearing. Victims arrive to find either no reservation exists or the property does not match photos. The old medina area has several family-run guesthouses that scammers clone with near-identical domain names. Book only through the property's direct website confirmed via phone call, or use major OTAs with chargeback protection such as Booking.com or Expedia. Never pay via wire transfer for accommodation.

Question 2

What is the "Phishing Links Targeting Byblos Festival Ticket Buyers" scam in Byblos?

Accepted Answer

During the annual Byblos International Festival (July–August), fraudulent social media posts and WhatsApp messages advertise discounted tickets via external links. These phishing pages harvest credit card details and personal data. The scam spikes in the weeks before major headliner announcements when demand is highest. Purchase festival tickets exclusively from the official Byblos International Festival website or accredited box offices in Beirut. Ignore any discounted ticket links shared via social media or messaging apps.

Online Scams in Byblos

Fake Online Reservation Portals for Byblos Guesthouses

Phishing Links Targeting Byblos Festival Ticket Buyers

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