Online Travel Booking and How to Avoid Scams
Nowadays, booking travel is typically done online. Whether it’s an Airbnb, all-inclusive resort, or airfare, most travelers are browsing online to make their final purchase. Global leader in online protection, McAfee, recently reported that 94% of travelers book their itineraries online. However, the digital travel world is not without its scams and bad players.
Types of Travel Scams
There are many types of travel scams affecting travelers, including:
1. Non-Existent Accommodations: Scammers create fake accommodation listings online to trick travelers into handing over their money for a booking that doesn’t exist.
2. Wi-Fi Scams: When using public Wi-Fi while traveling, scammers can easily access your personal information and steal it without your knowledge.
3. ATM and Credit Card Skimming: Scammers can install devices on ATMs and credit card machines that copy your card details when you use them.
4. Phishing Scams: Scammers will send you an email that appears to be from a legitimate travel company, encouraging you to click on a link or provide personal information.
5. Fake Travel Websites: Scammers can create fake travel websites that appear to be legitimate, but in reality they are designed to steal your money or personal information.
How to Avoid Travel Scams
The good news is that there are ways to avoid falling victim to travel scams. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Stick to reputable travel websites and companies that have a strong online presence and good reviews.
2. Always do your research before booking anything online, and never book anything before checking reviews on multiple websites.
3. Pay attention to the URL of any website you are using to book travel. If it seems unfamiliar or doesn’t look quite right, don’t use it.
4. Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi, and avoid accessing sensitive information or making purchases when using it.
5. Finally, be wary of any unsolicited emails or texts that ask for personal information or encourage you to click on links.
FQA
1. How do I know if an accommodation listing is fake?
One way to determine if a listing is fake is to reverse image search the photos to see if they are used on multiple websites. You can also check reviews on multiple sites to see if there are any red flags, or contact the hosting platform directly to verify the legitimacy of the listing.
2. What should I do if I fall victim to a travel scam?
If you fall victim to a travel scam, report it immediately to the hosting platform or travel company, your bank or credit card company, and local law enforcement. It’s also important to monitor your accounts for any unauthorized activity.
3. How can I protect my personal information while traveling?
You can protect your personal information while traveling by using a virtual private network (VPN) to ensure secure internet connection, using a password manager and two-factor authentication, and being cautious when using public Wi-Fi.
4. What should I do if I receive an unsolicited email or text?
If you receive an unsolicited email or text, do not click on any links or provide any personal information. Report the message as spam or delete it.
5. How can I verify the legitimacy of a travel website?
To verify the legitimacy of a travel website, check for SSL certification and look for recognizable payment systems, such as PayPal. You can also check reviews and ratings on multiple sites to see if there are any red flags.
