Security Corner Blog

With the holidays fast approaching, millions are making travel plans to be with family and friends. Unfortunately, holiday travel also brings a surge in scams targeting people booking flights, hotels, rental cars, and other holiday arrangements. Here's a guide on what to watch out for and how to keep your finances safe while preparing for holiday travels.

1. Fake Travel Booking Sites and Offers

During peak travel seasons, scammers often create fake websites or send phishing emails that mimic reputable travel agencies, airlines, and hotel chains. These websites may offer "too-good-to-be-true" discounts only to steal your payment information.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Only book through verified websites or trusted apps. Look for the "https" and lock symbol in the URL.

• Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails or texts, as they may redirect you to scam sites.

• Check for reviews or complaints about lesser-known sites to verify their legitimacy.

2. Phishing Emails and Fake Customer Support

Be cautious of emails that appear to be from airlines or hotels, especially if they ask you to confirm your booking details or payment information. Some phishing scams also use fake customer support numbers asking for personal or financial information.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Directly access your bookings through official websites or apps rather than through links in emails or messages.

• Verify contact numbers on the official website if you need assistance. Avoid using customer support numbers found in search engines or ads.

3. Vacation Rental Scams

Scammers can use platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and social media to post fake listings. They often ask for payment outside the rental platform, promising significant discounts.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Payments can only be made through the official rental platform, which typically provides some level of protection.

• Be suspicious of anyone outside the platform asking for wire transfers, cash apps, or cryptocurrency payments.

• Read reviews and check the host's history on the rental site to confirm legitimacy.

4. Gift Card and Prepaid Card Scams

Some scammers may ask you to pay for travel arrangements using gift or prepaid cards, claiming this will save you money. However, these payment methods are untraceable and irreversible, making them a prime choice for fraudsters.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Never pay for travel services with gift cards or prepaid cards.

• If someone pressures you to pay this way, it's likely a scam.

5. Social Media Travel Deal Scams

Scammers often advertise incredible travel deals on social media, especially around the holidays. These deals can appear legitimate but may lead to fake booking sites or trick you into providing personal information.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Verify travel deals directly with the company's website rather than through third-party links on social media.

• Look for verified accounts on platforms, as reputable companies often have a blue checkmark or other verification indicators.

6. Baggage and Travel Insurance Scams

Baggage protection and travel insurance are crucial during peak travel times, but scammers also capitalize on this need. They might offer fake insurance plans at a "discount," only to collect your payment information and disappear.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Purchase travel insurance directly from well-known providers or your travel agency.

• Avoid unknown companies with minimal information, poor reviews, or vague terms.

Final Tips for Staying Safe

1. Use Credit Cards Instead of Debit Cards: Credit cards often offer better fraud protection and are not directly linked to your bank account.
2. Monitor Bank Statements Regularly: Check for suspicious transactions during and after your travel period.
3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Use 2FA on your accounts to add an extra layer of protection.
4. Know and Trust the Recipient: Don't send money to people or companies you don't know or can't verify as legitimate.
5. Use Caution with QR Codes: While convenient, scammers can use QR codes to direct you to fraudulent websites. Verify the legitimacy of the source before scanning.
6. Research and Verify: Always research companies, hotels, and services before making a booking. Look for reviews and ratings on trusted websites.
7. Beware of Upfront Fees: Be cautious if asked to pay hefty upfront fees. Legitimate bookings typically require only a small deposit.

As you make your travel plans this holiday season, stay alert to these common scams to keep your finances secure and enjoy a worry-free holiday. Safe travels!

For more information on summer travel scams, see the FTC's article Avoid Scams When You Travel.

Article content is provided for information purposes only.