As the Easter holidays approach, many Australians are eagerly planning their getaways, looking forward to a well-deserved break. However, this peak travel period is also a prime time for scammers to prey on holidaymakers.
Recognising this risk, Australia’s Customer-Owned Banking Association (COBA) recently cautioned that criminals are exploiting offers of discounted holiday packages or free trips to deceive and steal from eager travellers.
To help you stay safe, we’re shedding light on common travel scams and sharing essential tips to ensure your Easter getaway is memorable for all the right reasons.
The lure of fake accommodation listings
One of the most common traps travellers fall into is booking accommodations through platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com, only to discover that the listing is fake. Scammers create enticing but phoney listings with attractive photos and competitive prices. They may even hack into legitimate accounts to appear more credible. Unsuspecting travellers pay deposits or full amounts for properties that don’t exist or aren’t available, leaving them stranded and out of pocket.
To avoid this pitfall, always check the most recent reviews for any negative feedback. Look at how long the property has been listed; a short history could be a red flag. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always communicate and make payments through the platform’s secure system to ensure your transaction is protected.
Beware of phishing attacks on booking platforms
Another sophisticated scam involves hackers taking over legitimate accommodation accounts to send phishing messages to guests. These messages may ask you to update your payment details or click on a link that leads to a fake website designed to steal your information. To spot these scams, be wary of any unusual requests from your accommodation provider. If you receive a suspicious message, contact the provider directly using contact details you’ve sourced independently, not through the booking site.
The allure of nonexistent travel prizes
Scammers also use the promise of free or discounted holiday packages to lure victims. You might receive an unsolicited call or email, or even a scratch card in your mailbox, claiming you’ve won a travel prize. However, to claim your ‘prize’, you’re asked to pay a fee upfront. Remember, legitimate competitions won’t require you to pay to receive a prize. Be sceptical of unexpected holiday offers and never share personal or financial details with anyone associated with these so-called prizes.
Fake travel package websites and social media scams
The internet is rife with bogus websites offering too-good-to-be-true travel deals. These sites may claim to sell discounted cruises or theme park packages but are actually fronts for fraud. Similarly, on social media, fake accounts impersonating major airlines or travel companies may target customers seeking assistance. These imposters direct victims to phishing sites to harvest sensitive data.
To protect yourself, research any travel deal or site that seems suspicious. Check the number of followers and the creation date of social media accounts to determine if they are legitimate. And always book through official channels or reputable travel agents.
International travel scams: Fake documents and more
When travelling abroad, be cautious of scams involving travel documents. Fake websites may offer to help you obtain visas, electronic travel authorisations (ETAs), or international driving permits (IDPs) for a fee. However, these documents may be counterfeit and could land you in legal trouble. Always use official government websites or authorised providers to apply for any necessary travel documents.
A little caution goes a long way in ensuring your Easter travels are smooth and scam-free. Stay vigilant, verify offers, and enjoy your well-earned break.
Have you ever come across a suspicious travel deal? What are your go-to tips for safe holiday planning? Share your insights in the comments below!
Also read: The sneaky airport car scam that’s catching travellers off guard!
