Recently, the travel industry has unexpectedly found itself in the spotlight, and not always for the right reasons. Unfortunately, fraud exists in all industries and sectors, and the travel world isn’t immune. However, knowing where to place trust can significantly mitigate risks.
The demand in global travel rose by a staggering 31% in March 2023 compared to 2019 figures and is estimated to reach a whopping $853.8 billion by the close of 2023. But with booming industries come challenges. TransUnion’s 2021 data showed a 156% increase in travel fraud. Here are the pitfalls you should be vigilant about:
The “Too Good To Be True” Deals:
The oldest trick in the book yet still alarmingly effective. Jaw-dropping prices, exclusive deals, and limited-time offers can make even the savviest traveller click ‘Book Now.’ Remember, if an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Bogus Booking Websites:
Behind polished designs and breathtaking destination photos lurk fraudsters waiting for your click. These faux websites vanish overnight, taking your hard-earned money with them.
Phantom Flight Tickets:
A sudden deal to popular destinations like Nigeria, India, or Pakistan catches your eye. After payment, the airline ticket either never arrives, or if it does, it’s a fake. The intent? Targeting those eager to visit friends and family and playing on your emotions.
High-Profile Event Scams:
Major events, such as sports tournaments or religious pilgrimages, are a gold mine for scammers. With limited ticket availability driving up prices, events like the European Football Championships or the Olympics become hot targets for bogus offers.
Holiday Accommodation Scandals:
Imagine this: A serene villa by the beach, listed at a steal. But in reality, it’s a web of lies spun on fake websites, or through hacked legitimate accounts and deceptive adverts spread across social media.
Email Traps:
A seemingly innocent email from a ‘reputable’ travel company might just be a phishing scheme. They’ll coax personal details out of you, often under the guise of ‘confirmation’’
Here is How to Travel with Confidence and Peace of Mind
The number of scams and fraudulent activity seems to be ever evolving, so how can holidaymakers ensure they don’t get caught out on their next holiday?
Vet Your Agent:
Opt for accredited travel agents. Their legitimacy is vouched for, offering you a safeguard against potential fraud. Look out for endorsements on the agency’s website, storefront or their marketing collateral.
Ensure URL Integrity:
An ‘https’ at the start of a web address is your friend. The ‘s’ stands for ‘secure’ – always check before making payments.
Use a Credit Card:
Credit card over cash every day. By using credit cards for bookings, travellers can take advantage of the ‘chargeback’ protection in the event of undelivered services. Remember, pressure to pay via EFT is akin to paying cash.
If you Suspect you’ve been Scammed:
Phone your bank:
Engage with your bank’s fraud department and request the chargeback option. Being precise helps them act swiftly.
Report the case to the police:
Furnish all available details to assist in the investigation.
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