As you plan out your summer, you might be looking forward to exploring new places and making lasting memories. However, scammers often take advantage of unsuspecting travelers through schemes that include fake rental listings, phishing emails and more.
According to the Federal Trade Commission, travel scams are on the rise, with consumers losing $274 million to travel scams in 2024. As you make plans, consider how you can take precautions before and during your trip.
How Can I Avoid Travel Scams Before My Trip?
You can avoid travel scams by first understanding how scammers take advantage of travelers. Scammers often offer significant travel discounts or other incentives through targeted social media ads or phishing emails that take users to a copycat website. Scammers can create believable content quickly using artificial intelligence tools. This makes it critical to slow down and look for potential red flags.
To avoid vacation booking scams, consider implementing the following practices:
- Avoid clicking on links in unexpected texts or emails. Even if you’re offered a travel deal from a reputable brand, examine the URL and visit the company’s official website to verify the offer.
- Book your trip through reputable travel agencies or directly with airlines and hotels. You may wonder, “How do I check if a travel agent is legitimate?” You can verify their credentials, such as IATA accreditation, check for industry affiliations, and research their reputation, such as the BBB, prior to booking with them.
- Check out the payment requirements. Scammers often ask their victims to pay with wire transfers, gift cards or cryptocurrencies because these payment methods are difficult to trace and recover, making it easier for them to get away with the fraud.
- Do your own research. If you believe you’ve been targeted by a scammer, look up agents, hotels, rentals and travel companies with the words “complaint,” “review” or “scam”. It’s also helpful to verify that the address of a property you’re booking really exists.
- Look for other red flags such as pressure to book immediately, no customer service number and poor grammar.
How Can I Safeguard My Personal Data When Traveling?
As you travel, take precautions to safeguard your personal information. Scammers often lurk on public Wi-Fi networks or exploit travelers through something called “juice jacking,” which is when hackers use public USB charging stations to install malware or steal personal data. Data theft can be easily overlooked and often takes place in airports and hotels.
To avoid being targeted, consider the following strategies:
- Use your own phone charger or carry a portable power bank.
- Use a VPN when accessing public Wi-Fi, which helps keep your information private by encrypting your connection.
- Install antivirus or security software on your phone and run a full scan if you think your device has been compromised. Some warning signs include unusual battery drain, sluggish performance or high data usage.
Social Media Smarts: How can sharing too much on social media get you into trouble?
With many social media platforms available, it’s tempting to post airport selfies and beach sunsets in real time. However, oversharing can make you a target for identify theft, burglary and other risks.
It’s wise to avoid posting real-time updates about your itinerary, check-ins or flights. Instead, wait until you return home to share your vacation photos. This will not only help safeguard your privacy, but also give you time to curate your best photos.
Additionally, before you travel:
- Review your privacy settings on your social media accounts
- Make sure that only your trusted friends and family can see your posts
- Be wary about accepting new requests during your trip. Even a seemingly harmless post can compromise your privacy and provide valuable information to criminals.
What Should I Do If I Suspect Travel Scams or Fraud?
If you suspect travel fraud or a scam, report it immediately! And don’t forget, your bank is there to help. If you inform your bank about your travel plans, you can avoid possible disruptions in service due to from flagged transactions in an unusual location. Before departing, it’s also helpful to set up account alerts, which provide real-time notifications about unusual activity. This can help you relax and be fully present on your vacation.
At Zions Bank, you can set up travel notifications on our website prior to a scheduled trip to avoid card disruptions. You can also sign up for Zions Bank’s Mobile Fraud Alert Service which sends a text message if your credit or debit card activity looks suspicious.
Travel Smart, Stress Less
A small amount of preparation can make a huge impact in helping you enjoy a relaxing vacation. Taking appropriate safeguards can help you avoid potential stressors and focus on making memories with loved ones.
