Travel scams typically increase during busy travel seasons.
“So we have to try to understand before we book. What does the average normal pricing for the place you are going. Scammers will target that,” said Leyla Bilge with Gen Digital.
Bilge, a scam expert, advises that the first step to avoiding scams is to research your destination and the typical costs for the trip. This will help you recognize deals that are too good to be true.
Next, she recommends booking directly on the booking platform to ensure you receive the added protections offered.
“The second thing is you should never book things outside of the booking platform. When booking on sites like Airbnb, avoid talking to someone who offers a better deal if you send money directly. It might seem like a better option without the Airbnb fees, but the risk of getting scammed is very high,” Bilge explained.
Lastly, be aware of imposter scams. These can start with a phone call from someone pretending to be from an airline or hotel, seeking your personal information.
“This is becoming really key because many scammers impersonate known brands. You might think you’re getting travel insurance from a reputable source, but it’s actually a scam. It’s even harder to identify these scams when booking through your mobile phone, so be very cautious,” Bilge warned.
Scammers often pressure you to make quick decisions or ask for payments via wire transfer, gift card, or cryptocurrency—these are typical signs something is amiss.
If you believe you have been targeted by a travel scam, you can report it to the Federal Trade Commission.