You've realized too late that you've been scammed by a fake online reservation agency, and you've already made the payment. First of all, we're sorry to hear that. You start searching the internet, and you see everyone recommending to "Run to the Consumer Arbitration Committee (THH)." But in the real world, is the arbitration committee a solution for summer rental or vacation scams?
How Does THH Work and What is Its Scope?
The Consumer Arbitration Committee is a free, consumer-friendly legal authority that can be applied to instantly via e-Devlet (TÜBİS). But there's a catch!
If you received poor service or had money unfairly deducted by a legally registered firm (a real hotel or a real travel company), THH steps in, examines their accounts, and gets your money back smoothly. The problem is this: Cybercriminals and systems that copy fake hotels are not legal "commercial entities"!
Deposits Sent to Personal Accounts Fall Under the Prosecution, Not THH
If you sent the deposit money to a personal account like "Melih Y. Consultancy" that you agreed with on Instagram, there is no corporate "C-to-B" transaction with a tax certificate involved. This is where fraud *(Turkish Penal Code Article 158/f: Fraud Committed by Using Information Systems as a Tool)* comes into play.
- The arbitration committee will issue a decision of non-jurisdiction (refusal) for illegal account thefts where no invoice was issued. Your months will be wasted, and your hopes will be crushed.
- In such cases, you should immediately discuss Chargeback with your bank and, without losing time, personally submit a petition to the Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, Bureau for Investigation of Informatics Crimes. In RuuSafe analysis, we aim to save our victims correct action time by making clear distinctions of this legal line.
To understand how to identify fake sites in vacation shopping, check out our how to spot a fake vacation site guide, and for the importance of TÜRSAB verification in a legal framework, read TÜRSAB verification and digital reservation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Consumer Arbitration Committee help in vacation scams?
THH is only authorized for disputes with legally registered companies. If you've been scammed via a fake website or an unregistered personal account, THH will issue a decision of non-jurisdiction; you must apply directly to the prosecutor's office and initiate a bank chargeback.
How many days do I have to apply for a chargeback to the bank?
While it varies by card rules and the bank, the general rule is to apply within 60 to 120 days. As soon as you notice the transaction, call your bank to start the process before even gathering documents; late applications may be rejected.
How do I apply to the informatics crimes prosecutor's office?
You can submit a petition to the nearest Chief Public Prosecutor's Office or use the Citizen Application section of the Chief Public Prosecutor's Office via e-Devlet. Attach payment documents, correspondence, and website screenshots to your petition.
