Italy warns UK tourists over 'tough' new law at restaurants and cafes

The European Union holiday hotspot has big plans which would see ID and proof of visit needed before reviewing a business online in the nation.
-Credit:Reach Publishing Services Limited


Italy is set to crack down on fake reviews of hotels and restaurants with a tough new law. The European Union holiday hotspot has big plans which would see ID and proof of visit needed before reviewing a business online in the nation.

A draft law was announced on Tuesday that, if approved by the Italian parliament, would require anyone who is writing an online review to provide verifiable identification as well as proof that they visited the place they are commenting on.

“Today marks an important step for the protection of our businesses,” said Daniela Santanché, Italy’s tourism minister. “Reviews, which thanks to this regulatory intervention will actually be truthful, are fundamental for the success of companies and for the trust of consumers and tourists.”

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“Fake reviews are a problem for fair competition between companies because they can have a big impact on sales, and are also a problem for consumers who can be misled,” Michele Carrus, chairman of consumer association Federconsumatori, told Reuters.

“The problem needed to be addressed,” he added. “It’s difficult to do it the right way, but I’m confident we can achieve that during the parliamentary debate.” Reviews will have to be posted within 15 days of the visit and must be relevant and detailed. If false, they can be removed at the request of the business in question.

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And businesses will be able to seek the removal of reviews that are more than two years old if they are no longer relevant. Reviews that are paid-for or sponsored via incentives will also be illegal. Catia Silvestri, who manages L’Antico Caffè della Pigna in central Rome, welcomed the regulations but said that, on the whole, she was in favour of reviews.

“Everyone should be able to express their opinions,” she said. “Fortunately, we haven’t had any issues. Reviews are subjective, but can help to ensure an establishment always provides good quality.”