Stay smart and safe: how to outsmart holiday scammers
Tue. 5th March 2024
In an era where online transactions dominate the travel booking landscape it's easy to get enticed by tempting offers which can be used to lure in customers and conceal fraudulent schemes.
How to protect yourself from holiday scams:
- Thoroughly research before booking
- Verify ABTA and ATOL status
- Always use a credit card to book
- Stay sceptical of cheap deals with unknown brands
- Use secure payment methods only
- Check reviews and investigate company reputations
- Be cautious of unsolicited emails and messages
- Avoid being rushed into making hasty decisions – this is a trick scammers use
- Report suspicious activity to relevant authorities
Action Fraud is warning that holiday scams are on the rise. In 2023 alone, a staggering £12.3 million was lost to fraud.
Pauline Smith, Head of Action Fraud, said:
“As people think ahead to book their holidays, understandably everyone is increasingly on the lookout for the best deals. With the cost-of-living crisis squeezing our finances, it's easy to forget to stay vigilant against fraudsters offering cheaper deals and great prices that are too good to be true.
“We want to avoid people losing their hard-earned money and help raise awareness of the signs of holiday fraud. Before booking any trips or signing up to any deals, do your research and check for ABTA and ATOL logos before clicking the confirmation button. Remember: stay alert online and be wise to fraudsters.”
Safeguarding against holiday scams requires a multifaceted approach encompassing vigilance, research, and adherence to established safeguards such as verifying Atol protection and using credit card payments can enhance security.
Remember to book travel insurance to provide cover for emergency medical expenses whilst you are away.
Total Travel Protection has expertise in offering travel insurance; specifically designed for individuals over the age of 70 and those with pre-existing medical conditions. We can cover medical conditions of all types and have no upper age limit.