Travel

Is Booking.com Safe?

Owned by Booking Holdings • Last updated January 2026

📋 Short Answer:
Booking.com tracks searches aggressively for remarketing.
PrivacyDefend Safety Score
5.0/10
Average
Data Collection
🔴 High
Encryption
🟢 Strong
Third-Party Sharing
🔴 Yes
Privacy Controls
🟡 Average

📊 What Data Does Booking.com Collect?

Booking.com has high data collection practices. Here's what they collect:

This level of data collection is concerning for apps in the travel category.

Why This Matters

The data Booking.com collects can be used for personalization, advertising, analytics, and may be shared with third parties. Understanding what's collected helps you make informed privacy decisions.

🔒 Booking.com Encryption & Security

Encryption Level: Strong

Standard booking platform security.

What This Means For You

Your data is well-protected with end-to-end encryption. Even the company cannot access your content.

🔗 Does Booking.com Share Your Data?

Third-Party Sharing: Yes

Shares with hotels. Uses extensively for retargeting ads.

✅ What's Good

  • Strong encryption
  • Average privacy controls

❌ Concerns

  • High data collection
  • Shares data with third parties
  • Part of larger data ecosystem

⚠️ Booking.com Privacy Controversies

Booking.com has faced scrutiny for the following privacy and security concerns:

These incidents highlight the importance of understanding Booking.com's privacy practices before use.

🔄 Safer Alternatives to Booking.com

Looking for more privacy-focused options? Consider these alternatives:

🛡️ Recommended Privacy Products

Enhance your privacy when using Booking.com with these tools:

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our privacy research.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is Booking.com safe to use in 2026?
Booking.com tracks searches aggressively for remarketing.
What data does Booking.com collect about me?
Booking.com collects: travel history, search history, payment info, preferences, location. This is considered high data collection.
Does Booking.com sell my personal data?
Shares with hotels. Uses extensively for retargeting ads.
Is Booking.com safe for kids?
We recommend parental supervision. Check our detailed analysis for kids.
What are safer alternatives to Booking.com?
Consider: Direct hotel booking, Airbnb, Hotels.com. See our alternatives section above.

Last updated: January 2026 • Review by PrivacyDefend Research Team