Fake online reviews. Credit: Pixabay, Geralt
Italy is taking bold steps to crack down on fake paid online reviews in the tourism and hospitality sector.
The bill, introduced by Tourism Minister Daniela Santanche, aims to change the way reviews of hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions are created and verified.
The bill is currently awaiting parliamentary approval and has sparked considerable debate.
New ID requirements for online reviews in Italy
Under the bill, anyone who wants to post a review would have to present a valid ID and proof of visit. This action targets both fraudulent reviews and unpublished paid promotions, ensuring that opinions reflect authentic customer experiences. Reviews must be submitted within two weeks of the facility visit and must include relevant details.
Tourism Minister Daniela Santanche described the initiative as “an important step to protect our businesses” and said transparent and truthful reviews are essential for consumer trust and the success of Italy’s tourism industry. It added.
Tightening regulations on review sites such as TripAdvisor
Online platforms such as TripAdvisor will be required to verify reviews to ensure compliance. Italy’s antitrust watchdog and communications regulator will oversee enforcement and impose penalties for violations.
According to a recent independent analysis of TripAdvisor reviews, the highest-rated B&Bs in popular tourist destinations are: The number of fake reviews will double Compared to lower tier accommodation.
Specifically, the bill would allow businesses to request removal of old reviews that are more than two years old if the issue has been resolved. Incentives such as discounts in exchange for paid reviews or positive feedback will also be illegal, further increasing transparency.
Consumer privacy concerns
Consumer groups such as Codacons and Federconsumatori have welcomed the bill as a necessary step to protect consumers and businesses, but others have expressed concerns. Critics argue that requiring identification and proof of visit can discourage users from leaving reviews and reduce the amount of feedback available online.
Fake reviews have long plagued the tourism industry, with the Italian Ministry of Enterprise reportedly estimating that fake reviews affect between 6 and 30 percent of the revenue of companies in the sector. . guardian.
What about social media influencers?
While the law primarily focuses on reviews of hotels and restaurants, advocacy groups say it would impose restrictions on social media influencers who promote products or services in exchange for gifts or payments without disclosing these arrangements. I’m asking you to strengthen it.
If the bill passes parliament without opposition, Italy will become the first country in Europe to introduce such strict regulations regarding online screening. It could pave the way for similar measures across the European Union. What do you think about this? Let us know in the comments.
See all italy news.
