Unfortunately, I can’t answer any of your questions, but wanted to thank you for sharing your story.

I read these from time to time and it really reinforces why I never book flights via a 3rd party.

I will occasionally book a hotel via the American Airlines portal for the extra miles, but I always follow up with the hotel directly a day or two after the booking to confirm they have the reservation, their own internal confirmation number and to confirm the type of room I booked.